Sepsis is a condition in which your body is fighting a severe infection. If you become "septic," you will likely be in a state of low blood pressure termed "shock." This condition can develop either as a result of your body’s own defense system or from toxic substances made by the infecting agent (such as a bacteria, virus, or fungus).
People at risk
People whose immune systems (the body’s defense against microbes) are not functioning well because of an illness, such as cancer or AIDS, are more prone to have sepsis.
Because their immune systems are not completely developed, very young babies may get sepsis if they become infected and are not treated in a timely manner. Often, if they develop signs of an infection such as fever, infants have to receive antibiotics and be admitted to the hospital.
The elderly population, especially those with other medical illnesses such as diabetes, may be at increased risk as well.
The number of people dying from sepsis has almost doubled in the past 20 years. This is not because doctors cannot care for people who have sepsis but because the number of people who get sepsis has increased.
There has been a large increase because doctors have started treating cancer patients and organ transplant patients, among others, with strong medications that weaken the immune system.
Also, because of our aging population, the number of elderly people with weak immune systems has grown.
Finally, because of the overuse of antibiotics to treat illnesses caused by viruses and not bacteria, bacteria have become resistant, making the treatment of sepsis difficult in some cases.
Circulatory System
Circulatory System, or cardiovascular system, in humans, the combined function of the heart, blood, and blood vessels to transport oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues throughout the body and carry away waste products. Among its vital functions, the circulatory system increases the flow of blood to meet increased energy demands during exercise and regulates body temperature.
