What is Sepsis and Respiratory Failure?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection triggers a widespread inflammatory reaction, leading to organ dysfunction and failure. Respiratory failure is a critical condition in which the lungs fail to provide adequate oxygen to the body's tissues or remove carbon dioxide effectively. Sepsis and respiratory failure can occur separately or in conjunction, particularly in cases of severe infection or pneumonia affecting the lungs.

Common Symptoms of Sepsis and Respiratory Failure

Fever or Hypothermia

High fever, chills, or low body temperature.

Difficulty Breathing

Rapid, shallow breathing or shortness of breath.

Altered Mental Status

Confusion, dizziness, disorientation, or lethargy.

Rapid Heart Rate

Increased heart rate (tachycardia) or low blood pressure (hypotension).

Low Oxygen Levels

Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the lips or skin) due to low oxygen levels.

Severe Fatigue

Extreme weakness, fatigue, or difficulty staying awake.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you or someone else experiences symptoms suggestive of sepsis or respiratory failure, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.

Schedule an appointment with emergency department Today

Consult our Emergency Care Doctors immediately if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Sepsis and Respiratory Failure

Q: What causes sepsis?

A: Sepsis is typically caused by bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections that enter the bloodstream and trigger a systemic inflammatory response. Common sources of infection leading to sepsis include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and abdominal infections.

Q: What are the risk factors for sepsis and respiratory failure?

A: Risk factors for sepsis and respiratory failure include advanced age, weakened immune system (due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications), chronic diseases (such as diabetes or kidney disease), invasive medical procedures, and prolonged hospitalization.

Q: How are sepsis and respiratory failure diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of sepsis and respiratory failure may involve medical history assessment, physical examination, laboratory tests (such as blood cultures, complete blood count, and arterial blood gas analysis), imaging studies (such as chest X-ray or CT scan), and assessment of organ function.

Q: What is the treatment for sepsis and respiratory failure?

A: Treatment for sepsis and respiratory failure may include antibiotics or antiviral medications to treat the underlying infection, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation (in severe cases of respiratory failure), intravenous fluids, vasopressors (to increase blood pressure), and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU).