Septicemia Meaning & Warning Signs That You Must Know!

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Imagine a small wound or a urinary infection unexpectedly becoming life-threatening in just a few hours. While this might sound scary, it's important to understand how septicemia works. It can begin quietly, like a minor infection, but if left untreated, it can pose serious risks.

Septicemia can take over your bloodstream if left untreated, turning your body into a battleground. In this blog, we’ll explore septicemia's meaning, how it progresses, its warning signs, and how you can protect yourself from it. Let's take a closer look at this silent and powerful storm happening inside our bodies.

What is Septicemia?

Septicemia, often known as blood poisoning, is a severe bloodstream infection. It happens when bacteria from other parts of the body, such as the skin, lungs, kidneys, or bladder, enter the bloodstream. While bacteria are the common cause, viruses and fungi can also be responsible. This condition is dangerous because bacteria and their toxins can spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. It can rapidly become life-threatening, requiring hospitalisation for treatment. 

If not treated promptly, septicemia can develop into sepsis, a life-threatening condition where your body starts attacking its tissues and organs. 

What Germs Can Cause Septicemia?

Almost any germ can lead to septicemia. The most common culprits are bacteria, which include:

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Escherichia coli

What are the Symptoms of Septicemia? The Early Signs

Septicemia symptoms can resemble the flu, but they appear suddenly and are more severe. Common signs of septicemia may include:

• High fever
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion or mental fog
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pale or cold skin
• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Red spots on the skin
• Decreased urine output
• Poor blood circulation

Common Septicemia Causes: Be Aware Of These!

Septicemia doesn't occur on its own; it typically arises from another infection in your body that spreads. Some common causes of septicemia include:

• Lung infection
• Kidney and urinary tract infection (UTIs)
• Abdominal infections
• Skin wounds and burns
• Post-surgery infection

Who is at Risk of Septicemia?

Septicemia can affect anyone, but it is more frequently seen in individuals who:

• Newborns or the elderly
• Immunocompromised patients: on steroids
• Organ transplant recipients
• Cancer patients under active therapy
• HIV patients
• Elderly people
• Patients with low white blood cell count
• Diabetes (uncontrolled)
• Chronic kidney disease
• Cirrhotic liver disease
• Prolonged hospitalisation, or ICU admission
• Patients requiring an endotracheal tube or an indwelling venous catheter.

Septicemia vs Sepsis: Know The Life-Threatening Difference!

Many individuals often confuse sepsis and septicemia, believing them to be the same. While closely connected, they are distinct conditions. Here’s a comparison between sepsis and septicemia to understand the differences between them:

How is Septicemia Diagnosed?

The doctor will evaluate the patient's history and conduct a physical exam to identify the likely infection site. Further tests include: 

• Blood cultures (to detect bacteria)
• Blood tests (to check organ functions and inflammation markers)
• Urine/Stool or Sputum tests
• Imaging ( like X-rays, CT scans to find the infection source)
• Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score

Septicemia Treatments: How to Manage This Disease?

Septicemia needs urgent treatment, primarily with antibiotics and supportive care, to manage the infection and its consequences. The goal of treatment is to find and remove the source of the infection, fight the bacteria, and assist vital organ function. Common treatments for septicemia include:

• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics
• Intravenous fluids - to maintain blood pressure
• Oxygen therapy
• Surgery - if the infection source needs draining or removal.
• Supportive care for organs that may be affected.

Bonus Tip: Treating septicemia usually requires urgent hospitalisation, intensive care, and powerful antibiotics, all of which can be expensive. This is where reliable medical insurance becomes valuable. It guarantees quick access to quality treatment and protects you from the worry of unexpected medical expenses. Opt for the Critical Illness Policy from Care Health Insurance to help you remain financially stable during health emergencies like septicemia.

Prevention of Septicemia 

You can reduce the risk of septicemia by:

• Getting all the suggested vaccines.
• Keep wounds clean and covered.
• Treating infections early.
• Manage chronic conditions (like diabetes) effectively.
• Practice good hygiene, like washing your hands frequently.

Small Infections Can Turn Serious: Be Alert!

Septicaemia shouldn't lead to panic, but it does need immediate action. By being aware, seeking prompt medical help, and taking preventive measures, you can avoid serious complications. It's important to listen to your body and never ignore signs of infection. Early identification and treatment are key to effective septicemia management. Even minor infections should be taken seriously as a vital preventive step.

>>Read More: Everything About Sepsis Infection, Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. Health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. See policy documents for details.