Definition, Causes and Symptoms of Septic Shock

Septic Shock

DEFINITIONS

Septic shock is a condition in which blood pressure drops to levels that endanger lives as a result of sepsis.

Septic shock often occur in:

• newborn baby,
• age above 50 years, and
• people with immune system disorders.

CAUSES

Septic shock caused by toxins produced by certain bacteria and due to cytokines (substances made by the immune system to fight an infection). Toxins released by the bacteria can cause tissue damage and circulatory disorders.

Risk factors for septic shock:

• Chronic diseases (diabetes, blood cancer, genital-urinary tract, liver, gall bladder, intestine).
• Infection.
• Long-term use of antibiotics.
• Medical procedures or surgery.

SYMPTOMS

Early signs of septic shock is often a decrease in mental alertness and confusion that arise within 24 hours or more before the blood pressure falls. This phenomenon is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. Outpouring of blood from the heart is indeed increased, but the blood vessels widen so blood pressure goes down. Breathing becomes fast so that the lungs secrete excessive levels of carbon dioxide in the blood decreases.

Early symptoms include shivering, body temperature rises very fast, warm and reddish skin, weak pulse and blood pressure fluctuated. Decreased urine production despite increased flow of blood from the heart. In later stages, the body temperature often drops to below normal.

When the shock worsens, several organs fail:

• Kidneys: urine production is reduced.
• Lungs: respiratory distress and decreased oxygen levels in the blood.
• Heart: fluid retention and swelling.

May develop blood clots in the blood vessels.