When you hear the word “sepsis,” you might not immediately recognize its seriousness. But this life-threatening condition affects 1.7 million people in the U.S. each year and can quickly become fatal if not treated promptly.
To better understand sepsis and how it’s managed, Nidhi Shah, MD, associate medical director, hospitalist program, Greenwich Hospital, answered common questions pertaining to the disease. Dr. Shah specializes in the care of hospitalized patients and recently won the hospital’s prestigious Physician Partner-in-Care Award for her excellence in patient care, teaching and leadership.
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. Instead of just fighting off harmful bacteria, the immune system overreacts and begins attacking the body’s own organs and tissues. This can lead to widespread inflammation, organ failure and even death if not treated quickly.
“Sepsis is a medical emergency,” Dr. Shah explains. “The sooner it’s identified and treated, the better the chances of survival.”
While it can develop from almost any infection, some of the most common culprits include:
- Lung infections (such as pneumonia)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Abdominal infections (like appendicitis)
- Skin infections (such as cellulitis)
- Bloodstream infections (septicemia)
Who is most at risk for sepsis?
Sepsis doesn’t discriminate — it can affect anyone. However, some groups are more vulnerable, including:
- Older adults (65+)
- Infants and young children
- People with chronic conditions (diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, etc.)
- Those with weakened immune systems (due to chemotherapy, organ transplants, or other health issues)
- Patients with severe injuries or burns
- Pregnant and postpartum women
Since symptoms of sepsis can be subtle at first, it’s crucial to know what to look for —especially if you or a loved one falls into a high-risk category.
Warning signs: Symptoms of sepsis
Sepsis symptoms can vary from person to person, but common warning signs include:
- Fever (above 101°F) or unusually low body temperature
- Chills and severe shivering
- Rapid heart rate or palpitations
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion, disorientation or difficulty speaking
- Extreme fatigue or weakness
- Low blood pressure (which can lead to shock)
- Pale, mottled or discolored skin
- Little or no urine output (a sign of kidney dysfunction)
- Severe pain or discomfort in various parts of the body
“Many people don’t realize that sepsis can start off feeling like the flu,” Dr. Shah notes. “If you experience a combination of these symptoms, especially after an infection, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.”
Advancements in fighting sepsis
Greenwich Hospital has made sepsis a top priority by launching an advanced Sepsis Quality Improvement Project to improve early detection and treatment.
“Our goal is to reduce sepsis-related deaths and improve patient outcomes,” Dr. Shah explains. “We’re using rigorous data analysis and evidence-based interventions to enhance care at every step.”
Key initiatives include:
- Faster diagnosis through improved screening and testing protocols
- Rapid administration of antibiotics and fluids
- Multidisciplinary teamwork to monitor and manage sepsis cases
- Staff training to recognize the earliest signs of sepsis
- Ongoing research and quality improvement efforts
These proactive measures are already making a life-saving difference for patients.
The bottom line
Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires fast action. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is by knowing the warning signs and seeking immediate medical care if you suspect an infection is worsening.
Thanks to experts like Dr. Shah and the dedicated team at Greenwich Hospital, sepsis care is improving — helping more patients recover and return home safely.
If you or a loved one ever experience symptoms of sepsis, don’t wait—get medical help right away. Early detection can save lives.
