East Holstein. Ignorance about sepsis can be fatal. This is what the AOK NorthWest the population in the Ostholstein district on the occasion of World Sepsis Day on September 13th. Sepsis, also commonly known as “blood poisoning”, is a life-threatening emergency like a stroke or heart attack. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. Therefore, you should act quickly at the first signs and call the emergency services. In Schleswig-Holstein alone, 733 cases of AOK insured people with sepsis were treated in hospital last year because of acute life-threatening conditions. “Sepsis can occur in any situation and at any age. Many illnesses could be avoided through prevention, early detection and targeted, rapid treatment,” says AOK service region manager Reinhard Wunsch.
So-called “blood poisoning” is not poisoning in the traditional sense, but the most serious form of infection. It occurs when the body’s own immune system gets out of control and begins to damage its own organs. Not only bacteria, but also viral infections of the respiratory tract and other organs can lead to sepsis, for example in the case of COVID-19, pneumonia or flu, as well as in the case of inflammation of the urinary tract. Infected wounds such as cuts or insect bites are therefore not the most common cause of sepsis. If left untreated, “blood poisoning” is always fatal. Any delay worsens the long-term consequences and reduces the chances of survival. Around 75 percent of sepsis survivors suffer from long-term consequences. These can lead to, among other things, difficulty concentrating, depression and chronic pain, up to the amputation of limbs, reduced performance or the need for care.
If the signs of an acute infection are accompanied by fever, chills, increased pulse, labored breathing or a strong feeling of illness, these are warning signs of possible sepsis. “Quick and early treatment is important. Anyone who notices any of these signs in addition to an acute infection should call the emergency medical service to be on the safe side,” says Wunsch.
In order to protect yourself from sepsis and its consequences, hygiene, good wound disinfection and care, and consistent treatment are important. The Robert Koch Institute also recommends vaccinations. All approved vaccines have been tested many times and are safe and effective. People who are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill from an infection (for example, older people, small children, or people with pre-existing conditions or a weak immune system) should be vaccinated.
Background:
According to current estimates by the Sepsis Foundation, around half a million people nationwide suffer from sepsis, with more than 140,000 deaths in hospital alone. Over 270,000 of the survivors suffer from long-term consequences. (red)
World Sepsis Day ideas
Table of Contents
Raising Awareness about Sepsis in East Holstein
As the population in the Ostholstein district prepares to celebrate World Sepsis Day on September 13th, it’s essential to educate ourselves about the dangers of sepsis, also known as “blood poisoning.” Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that can occur at any age and in any situation, and ignorance about it can be fatal. In this article, we’ll delve into the symptoms, causes, and consequences of sepsis, and highlight the importance of early detection and treatment.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is not poisoning in the traditional sense, but rather the most serious form of infection. It occurs when the body’s own immune system gets out of control and begins to damage its own organs. Bacterial, viral, and other infections can lead to sepsis, including COVID-19, pneumonia, flu, and urinary tract infections.
Symptoms of Sepsis
Recognizing the symptoms of sepsis is crucial to prompt treatment and preventing fatal consequences. Some common symptoms include:
Change in mental status [[1]]
Fast, shallow breathing [[1]]
Sweating for no clear reason [[1]]
Feeling lightheaded [[1]]
Shivering [[1]]
Hands and feet that feel cold, clammy, and look pale [[2]]
Feeling dizzy, faint, or losing consciousness [[2]]
Not peeing as much as usual [[2]]
Lose interest in food and surroundings [[3]]
Become feverish, very cold, or have the chills [[3]]
Have problems breathing [[3]]
Have a high heart rate [[3]]
If you experience any of these symptoms in addition to an acute infection, call the emergency medical service immediately.
Consequences of Untreated Sepsis
If left untreated, sepsis can lead to fatal consequences. Delay in treatment worsens the long-term consequences and reduces the chances of survival. Around 75% of sepsis survivors suffer from long-term consequences, including:
Difficulty concentrating
Depression
Chronic pain
Amputation of limbs
Reduced performance
Need for care
Protecting Yourself from Sepsis
To prevent sepsis and its consequences, it’s essential to:
Practice good hygiene
Disinfect and care for wounds properly
Seek consistent treatment for infections
Be aware of the symptoms of sepsis and act quickly if you suspect it
As Reinhard Wunsch, AOK service region manager, emphasizes, “Sepsis can occur in any situation and at any age. Many illnesses could be avoided through prevention, early detection, and targeted, rapid treatment.”
sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt attention and treatment. By recognizing the symptoms and taking preventive measures, we can reduce the incidence and consequences of sepsis in East Holstein and beyond. Let’s spread awareness about sepsis and work together to save lives.
Raising Awareness about Sepsis in East Holstein
As the population in the Ostholstein district prepares to celebrate World Sepsis Day on September 13th, it’s essential to educate ourselves about the dangers of sepsis, also known as “blood poisoning.” Sepsis is a life-threatening emergency that can occur at any age and in any situation, and ignorance about it can be fatal.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is not poisoning in the traditional sense, but rather the most serious form of infection.
