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Person in hospital bed

Sepsis

Sepsis is life-threatening and can affect anyone. If you suspect sepsis, go to an emergency room immediately. Err on the side of caution and seek medical assistance.

Check symptoms
Person in hospital bed

Sepsis

Sepsis is life-threatening and can affect anyone. If you suspect sepsis, go to an emergency room immediately. Err on the side of caution and seek medical assistance.

Check symptoms

Could It Be Sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection that requires immediate emergency care. If it progresses to septic shock, it can lead to organ failure and even death. Most often, sepsis is caused by a bacterial infection—commonly from the skin (like a cut), lungs (such as pneumonia), kidneys, or digestive system (like E. coli).

Sepsis can develop quickly and affect anyone, at any age. Recognizing the signs and seeking prompt medical attention can save lives.

If you're concerned about sepsis, go to the hospital immediately. Tell them you are concerned about sepsis.

Symptoms of Sepsis (Remember "TIME")

  • A woman looks at her temperature on a thermometer GettyImages-1226097663.jpg

    T = Temperature

    Body temperature usually rises to fight infection, causing a fever. People with sepsis may experience either high or low body temperature, so look for any abnormal body temperature.

  • A man coughing in bed

    I = Infection

    Common infections that may lead to sepsis include lung, skin, urinary tract, and abdominal infections. However, ANY infection can lead to sepsis.

  • A woman helps a mother get up

    M = Mental Decline

    Some people with sepsis show a sudden change in mental status, becoming confused, sleepy or difficult to rouse.

  • A woman lays in bed in distress

    E = Extremely Ill

    People with sepsis often report feeling the worst they have ever felt. Look for severe pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, chills/shaking, cool clammy skin, and/or a feeling that you may die.

Trusted Sepsis Resources

  • A mother does her daughter's hair

    Sepsis Alliance

    Advancing their mission to save lives and reduce suffering by improving sepsis and sepsis prevention awareness.

    View resources
  • A person with an IV in their arm

    Society of Critical Care Medicine

    Offering the latest, evidence-based adult and pediatric resources for post-ICU sepsis recovery.

    View resources
  • A doctor rests his hand on the shoulder of a patient

    Support for Sepsis Survivors

    Offering strategies to support recovery and prevent future hospitalizations.

    View video
  • A father hugs his son with a smile

    American Academy of Pediatrics

    Offering sepsis-specific resources in English and Spanish for kids from infants to teenagers.

Women who is not feeling well

Symptom Checker

Are You Sick or Injured?

Our symptom checker provides trusted, educational information on a wide range of conditions. It offers guidance on home care and first aid when appropriate, and helps you know when to contact your provider, call 911, or visit the emergency department. You’ll also find dosage tables for common over-the-counter medications.

Every care guide is reviewed by physicians, specialists, and nurses to ensure accuracy, with patient safety as our top priority.

If you need more personalized advice about your symptoms or injury, please reach out to your provider.

Use the symptom checker
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