With the introduction of infection into the body, there are numerous problems that can arise. In particular, if an infection is left unchecked and is permitted to spread to the bloodstream, the resulting condition may prove life-threatening. Known as either sepsis or blood poisoning, this medical emergency can produce extreme tissue damage throughout the body. Additionally, the condition causes the body to enter into a large-scale state of inflammation, causing an increase in body temperature and heart rate. Without medical attention, the mortality rate of this condition is very high.
There are some treatment options available for those suffering from sepsis, although success is certainly far from guaranteed. In cases of severe sepsis or when a patient slips into septic shock, physicians often must take more drastic action to fight the infection, as the mortality rate can hover above 40 percent. With aggressive treatment, this may be even lowered to roughly 25 percent.
Among the different treatment options, there are a few standards. Obviously, as the cause of sepsis is the presence of an infection in the bloodstream, antibiotics are often included as a central part of a treatment program. In addition to antibiotics, supplemental treatment may be necessary to keep each of the major organs running properly. In particular, with heart failure being a major risk, treatments may be prepared to improve heart function in case of weakening.
The removal and drainage of infected tissue and fluids may occur as a part of clearing out the infection. As the body reacts to the extreme conditions, fluid can build up around the body, in part due to the kidneys becoming overloaded. With kidney failure, fluid may collect and build up around the body, requiring prompt removal. If the infection becomes severe enough, the dysfunction within the body can cause necrosis to set in. In these cases, removing necrotic tissue through amputation may be necessary.
To learn more about a patient's options if negligence has caused the onset of sepsis, contact a medical malpractice attorney.
Wrong Patient Surgery Safety of Gastric Banding Weight-Loss Surgery in Question Anesthetics at the Dentist Dental Malpractice Nursing Care Malpractice (Part I)
0 comments:
Post a Comment