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Sepsis can be a potentially life-threatening infection

Every two minutes, someone in the United States, dies from a sepsis infection. Across the world, there are eight million sepsis-related deaths each year. Those stats are from the Sepsis Alliance Institute, which provides public and clinical education, to help better understand sepsis, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

As many as 80 percent of sepsis deaths could be prevented, with increased knowledge about the infection, rapid diagnosis and treatment.

The following are some myths and truths about sepsis: Myth – Sepsis is a blood infection.

Truth – Sepsis is the body’s overreaction and toxic response to any number of infections, including bacterial or viral infections, fungi or parasites.

Myth – Sepsis is only acquired in a hospital setting, usually after a surgical procedure.

Truth – Sepsis can begin anytime and anywhere. Patients admitted to the hospital with severe sepsis and septic shock, have most often acquired sepsis before entering the hospital.

Myth – Sepsis is rare and only affects people with preexisting conditions.

Truth – Anyone with an infection is at risk for sepsis, no matter what caused the infection; from an inflamed paper cut to pneumonia. Sepsis is the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals. Early detection and treatment will provide the best outcomes for patients in a hospital setting, and in the community.

Recognizing the signs of sepsis, using the acronym TIME and getting medical attention quickly, may save lives.

T – Temperature higher or lower than normal I – Infection symptoms are present, such as chills and sweats, sore throat, stiff neck, and/or burning or pain with urination M – Mental decline, such as confusion, sleepiness and/or decreased energy E – Extremely ill with severe pain, discomfort and/or shortness of breath

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