Septic Shock Learning Center

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Welcome

Septic shock is a serious condition that occurs when an overwhelming infection leads to low blood pressure and low blood flow. The brain, heart, kidneys, and liver may not work properly or may fail. See also: Meningococ...

Basic Info

Symptoms
Cool, pale extremities; High or very low temperature, chills; Lightheadedness; Low blood pressure, especially when stan...
Causes
Septic shock occurs most often in the very old and the very young. It also occurs in people who have other illnesses. A...
Tests
Blood tests may be done to check for infection, low blood oxygen level, disturbances in the body's acid-base balance, o...
Treatments
Septic shock is a medical emergency. Patients are usually admitted to the intensive care unit of the hospital. Treatmen...
Drugs
  • cefotaxime
  • ceftazidime
  • ceftriaxone
Risk Factors
  • Diabetes
  • Elderly
  • Genitourinary Disorders
Complications
Respiratory failure, cardiac failure, or any other organ failure can occur.
Prevention
Prompt treatment of bacterial infections is helpful. However, many cases of septic shock cannot be prevented.
Doctor Specialties
Go directly to an emergency department if you or a loved one have symptoms of septic shock

Basic Info

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