Dr Pradeep Sharma of MMI Discusses Sepsis – A Silent Killer

Positive India:Dr.Pradeep Sharma:
On World Sepsis Day, MMI Narayana Hospital spreads awareness about sepsis. Dr Pradeep Sharma throws comprehensive light on Sepsis:A Silent Killer.
Sepsis :
Sepsis, commonly referred to as “poison in blood,” is a potentially fatal complication that can result from bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections. It is a dangerous side effect of the body’s reaction to infection(dysregulated host defense) that can result in organ damage or even death. Despite its seriousness, awareness about it is very low, which results in delayed diagnoses and higher mortality rates. We must increase public awareness of this silent murderer since information is our best defense.
A Global Health Issue:
As per a 2020 research report, sepsis affected 5 crores, among which 40% are children under the age of 5 years, and the burden is mostly observed in low- and middle-income countries.
Sepsis is one of the leading causes of death in several regions of the world. Sepsis is a sickness that results from an infection that spreads to several organs. Sepsis is diagnosed in one in six hospital patients, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to designate it as a global health priority in 2017. Every year on September 13th, World Sepsis Day is held to raise awareness of this important topic.

The Deadly Escalation: Sepsis to Septic Shock
Sepsis may develop into septic shock, an unsafe condition when blood pressure falls to dangerously low levels and frequently results in death without aggressive intensive care treatment (ICU), if it is not swiftly controlled. The key to sepsis survival depends on obtaining antimicrobial medicines (usually known as antibiotics) early on and in seeking medical attention at the appropriate time. According to studies, every hour that antibiotic therapy is postponed leads in a shocking 6% rise in mortality. Delaying medical care can also lead to severe sepsis, which has a high fatality rate and expensive medical costs.
Who is at risk of sepsis?
Sepsis can develop in a patient who has an infection, a severe injury, or a severe non-communicable condition; however, vulnerable populations are more susceptible, such as:
Aged persons
Newly born or neonate
Hospitalised patients
Pregnant women
Patients with weak immune system( transplant patients)
Presence of chronic medical conditions like kidney , heart and lung disease
Patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU)
Prevention: The Best Defense:
When it comes to sepsis, the proverb “prevention is better than cure” is especially true. The best method to combat sepsis is to stop infections before they start. Simple precautions can make a big difference in lowering the risk, such as wearing masks in public areas, avoiding close contact with infected people, caring for wounds properly, and thoroughly washing your hands with soap.

In conclusion, sepsis is a strong foe yet it is not unbeatable. The secret to prevention is timely and appropriate treatment. In the fight against sepsis, prompt medical care, prompt antibiotic administration, and prompt treatment are essential. Sepsis can be prevented by raising awareness of it, which will help us save lives.