What are the Long-Term Health Effects of Sepsis?
Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening immune response to an infection. If the body overreacts to a localized infection, it can cause a systemic reaction that creates inflammation throughout the body. Sepsis is most commonly contracted in the hospital when an individual is recovering from an infection Sepsis can progress very quickly, and it can be deadly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been publicizing a “Get Ahead of Sepsis” campaign, which seeks to educate the public about the risks of sepsis, and how to identify it so that it can be treated quickly.
People who survive sepsis may experience a condition called post-sepsis syndrome (PSS). The Sepsis Alliance estimates that about 50% of people who have survived sepsis can be left with long-term physical and psychological effects, such as:
- Insomnia
- Nightmares and panic attacks
- Disabling muscle and joint pain
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Inability to concentrate
- Decreased mental functioning
- Loss of self-esteem
- Weight loss, lack of appetite, food not tasting normal
- Dry, itchy, peeling skin
- Brittle nails
- Hair loss
A study conducted by the University of Michigan Health System, which was published in JAMA, reported that 60% of hospitalizations for severe sepsis were associated with worsened cognitive and physical function among older adults. The blood clots that may have formed while they had sepsis could have led to amputations. Sepsis can also affect breathing and lung condition, leaving sepsis survivors susceptible to lung infections kidney damage or liver injury.
The Sepsis Alliance recommends that patients with post-sepsis syndrome talk to their doctors and healthcare professionals to find out what resources are available for emotional and psychological support
If the patient contracted sepsis while in the hospital for another health condition, it could be grounds for taking legal action for medical negligence. Firm partner Chad McGowan has handled complex sepsis-related medical malpractice claims with success, including a $13.75 million jury verdict on behalf of a triple-amputee.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a preventable medical error, our attorneys at McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC can help you obtain the justice and compensation you deserve. We handle most complex cases and are committed to delivering results on your behalf. To set up a free consultation with a skilled medical malpractice attorney , please complete our contact form or call 803-327-7800.
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Randy is the former President of the South Carolina Association for Justice. He has been certified by the American Board of Professional Liability as a specialist in Medical Malpractice Law which is recognized by the South Carolina Bar. Randy has also been awarded the distinction of being a “Super Lawyer” 10 times in the last decade. He has over 25 years of experience helping injured people fight back against corporations, hospitals and wrong-doers.
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