Sepsis End-of-Life Symptoms
Sepsis End-of-Life Symptoms
If you or a loved one is facing sepsis, especially in its advanced stages, you may be worried about the prognosis, and with good reason. Sepsis-related infections spread and worsen quickly, often within just hours or days. Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize the signs, understand the progression, and know when to consider hospice.
What Is Sepsis?
Sepsis happens when your body overreacts to an infection. Instead of fighting it off, your immune system goes into overdrive, causing widespread inflammation, tissue damage, and organ failure. If left untreated, septic shock may set in. This is a medical emergency characterized by a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Without immediate attention, multiple organ failure occurs very quickly.
Symptoms of Sepsis and Septic Shock
Sepsis doesn’t look the same for everyone, but the following symptoms are most common in the early stages:
• High fever or low body temperature
• Rapid breathing
• Fast heart rate
• Confusion or disorientation
As sepsis progresses, additional signs may appear, including:
• Pale, cool, or clammy skin
• Difficulty breathing
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Decreased urine output
When septic shock sets in, the symptoms become even more severe:
• Dangerously low blood pressure
• Dizziness and fainting
• Cold extremities
• Organ failure
• Loss of consciousness
Causes and Risk Factors for Sepsis
Infections in the lungs, urinary tract, abdomen, or bloodstream are the most common sources of sepsis. Even a minor infection, like a small cut, can spiral into sepsis under the right conditions. Of course, not all infections lead to sepsis. Some people are more vulnerable due to the following risk factors:
- Age: Infants and older adults are at a higher risk.
- Weakened immune systems: People undergoing chemotherapy, taking immunosuppressive drugs, or living with HIV/AIDS are more prone to severe infections.
- Chronic illnesses: Conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease increase the likelihood of developing sepsis.
- Invasive medical devices: Catheters and breathing tubes can introduce bacteria directly into the body.
- Severe injuries or burns: Open wounds and burns act as entry points for bacteria and other pathogens.
Diagnosing and Testing for Sepsis
Sepsis is a medical emergency, and early diagnosis could be life-saving. If doctors suspect sepsis, they’ll run several tests to confirm it and assess its severity:
- Blood tests check for signs of infection, inflammation, and how well the liver and kidneys are functioning.
- Imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds may be used to pinpoint the source of the infection.
- Testing the urine, wound secretions, or other fluids helps doctors identify the bacteria or pathogens causing the infection.
Managing and Treating Sepsis
Once sepsis is diagnosed, treatment begins immediately. The goal is to stabilize the patient, control the infection, and minimize organ damage. Treatment measures may include the following:
- Antibiotics target the underlying infection.
- Intravenous fluids stabilize blood pressure and support circulation.
- Medications help raise blood pressure, control fever, and manage other symptoms.
- Supportive care like oxygen therapy, dialysis, or mechanical ventilation is offered as needed.
Recovering from Sepsis
The road to recovery varies widely. Some people recover quickly and completely, while others face lingering effects known as post-sepsis syndrome. These long-term effects may include:
- Chronic fatigue
- Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
- Ongoing pain or discomfort
- Emotional struggles
Recovery may involve physical therapy, counseling, or follow-up medical care. Family members are encouraged to offer support and help their loved ones through this challenging phase.
How to Approach Conversations About Hospice and Sepsis
When sepsis end-of-life symptoms appear, it’s natural to pursue every treatment option available. However, if the condition progresses despite medical intervention or the patient’s quality of life declines significantly, hospice care may be a compassionate choice.
Many people assume sepsis can only be treated at a hospital, but hospice care provides comfort and support at home. Hospice focuses on managing pain and controlling symptoms, allowing patients to spend their remaining time as comfortably as possible.
Starting a conversation about hospice care is never easy. Consider these tips:
- Clarify the patient’s health status with their doctor and understand what the future might hold.
- Educate yourself on what hospice care entails and how it could be beneficial.
- Talk with the patient and other family members about what’s most important regarding comfort, dignity, and care.
- Listen to differing opinions and work together to make the best decision.
Choosing Compassionate Care
Sepsis is a challenging condition that requires tough decisions. Agape Hospice & Palliative Care understands how overwhelming this time can be. As a locally owned and nationally accredited hospice care provider serving Los Angeles and Orange County, we offer the personal, compassionate support you need. Our dedicated team works together to provide care that goes above and beyond for our patients and their families. If you or a loved one is facing sepsis or another serious illness, don’t hesitate to contact us for immediate support.