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Sepsis accounts for 44,000 deaths annually in the UK, that’s more than breast cancer, bowel cancer and prostate cancer put together. Sepsis is the acute bodily reaction to infection.

Symptoms initially present as flu like but can rapidly deteriorate into a life threatening condition.

In my case, this was exactly what happened. I thought maybe I had food poisoning or just a really bad bug and a killer migraine. I had no idea how bad my situation really was.

I still don't know where the sepsis originated but I can tell you that after spending some time on the emergency floor, it wasn't looking too good for a while.

It was only because of a call to 111, the non-emergency line, that I ended up in hospital in the first place - had that call not been made, I doubt I would've been here today.

Anyway, after being pumped full of fluids, painkillers and anti-biotics I was allowed to go home. Fast-forward about 6 months later and I finally felt back to normal. I was (and still am) shocked by how long the recovery took. 

A call at the right time could save a life, just like it did with me.

HOW DO I SPOT SEPSIS?

Sepsis could occur as the result of any infection. There is no one sign for sepsis.

Sepsis is a serious condition that can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection.

Seek medical help urgently if you develop any of the following:

Slurred speech or confusion
Extreme shivering or muscle pain
Passing no urine (in a day)
Severe breathlessness
It feels like you’re going to die
Skin mottled or discoloured

SEPSIS IN CHILDREN

If your child is unwell with either a fever or very low temperature (or has had a fever in the last 24 hours), just ask: could it be sepsis?

Any child who:

– Is breathing very fast
– Has a ‘fit’ or convulsion
– Looks mottled, bluish, or pale
– Has a rash that does not fade when you press it
– Is very lethargic or difficult to wake
– Feels abnormally cold to touch

Might have sepsis. Call 999 and just ask: could it be sepsis?

Any child under 5 who:

– Is not feeding
– Is vomiting repeatedly
– Hasn’t had a wee or wet nappy for 12 hours

Might have sepsis. If you’re worried they’re deteriorating call 111 or see your GP.

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