Sepsis Takes Many Lives Dayly
Individuals normally have many questions after a family member dies and they learn that it was as a result of sepsis. What the majority of people do not know sepsis is very common particularly among the elderly. It is really among the leading reason patients die in hospitals. More than one hundred thousand individuals die due to sepsis.
The elderly are at high risk of coming down with sepsis. This is because sepsis starts off as an infection and infections are common among elderly patients in hospitals/nursing homes/rehabilitation facilities. Some of the types of infections most frequently seen among the elderly are abdominal infections and bed sores.
The most effective way we know of helping people survive sepsis is to treat the infection right away. If the infection remains untreated for a period of time sepsis can progress as it gets worse the odds of survival go down. If the patient enters the phase of septic shock the likelihood of survival drops to no better than 50%.
Another group of people who have a higher risk of getting infections are cancer patients, for example, those with cancer of the colon. Cancer patients frequently need chemotherapy. Chemotherapy might significantly compromise the person’s immune system. For someone in this condition, infections can be a serious issue and can turn septic. Moreover, chemotherapy is frequently given via a port which can also become infected. This same problem arises with patients who need dialysis.
People ought to be cognizant of the risks posed by infections and to talk to their physician in the event they notice evidence of an infection or have any health related issues.
This note is intended for basic educational uses only. It is not meant as, and it should not be taken to be, medical or legal advice. For any health or medical concerns consult a doctor without delay. And if you believe you might be the victim of medical malpractice speak to a lawyer. A lawyer can determine whether you have a valid claim. Call the attorney without delay because the law limits the amount of time within which you can pursue a lawsuit.