2024-01-07 05:58:00
Title: Sepsis: Germany’s Silent Killer Revealed
By: Susanne Sasse
Date: January 7, 2024, 4:58 a.m
A person in Germany dies of blood poisoning around every six minutes. Nevertheless, the treacherous disease, known in technical language as sepsis, is usually underestimated and often recognized far too late. It is the third most common cause of death in Germany, resulting in 85,000 to 100,000 deaths per year, with survivors often having to contend with dramatic subsequent damage. A large proportion of the deaths could have been avoided, making it a serious public health issue.
The symptoms of sepsis can be like a chameleon, often masquerading as other health issues and leading to late diagnoses. Dr. Tobias Weiglein, a senior physician in the central emergency room at the Großhadern University Hospital, explained that sepsis can often be mistaken for other conditions, causing it to be recognized very late. The illness also presents with a wide variety of symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose, especially in older patients who may be admitted to the hospital with an entirely different suspicion.
Risk factors for sepsis include diabetes, heart failure, or chronic lung disease. These factors can lead to a localized infection quickly becoming very dangerous, so it is important to monitor patients closely. Warning signs of sepsis include personality changes, significant changes in blood pressure or pulse, high fever, cold sweats, increased respiratory rate, and sudden feelings of unusual illness.
Blood poisoning is typically caused by an infection in the body, such as inflammation in the lungs or urinary tract. Bacteria, fungi, or viruses can trigger sepsis, leading to a severe immune response that can result in fluid leakage into the body’s tissues and the formation of edema. This can cause a drop in blood pressure and, if not treated immediately, can lead to septic shock, significantly impacting the body’s vital organs.
The tragic case of former Labor and Social Affairs Minister Norbert Blüm highlights the devastating consequences of sepsis. Blüm fell into a coma due to sepsis and was later paralyzed from the shoulders down before passing away just a few weeks later. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of early detection and treatment for this silent killer.
This article serves as a general overview of sepsis and is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice for any health concerns.]
#recognize #blood #poisoning