How do you treat blood poisoning?

Hello Erin,

Sepsis, commonly called blood poisoning, is a life threatening medical condition associated most often with a bacterial infection. It occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight the infection trigger inflammation throughout the body.

Early, aggressive treatment with antibiotics administered intravenously and vasopressors, which are medications that constrict blood vessels and help to increase blood pressure. Low doses of corticosteroids, insulin to stablize blood sugar levels and drugs to modify the immune system responses, along with analgesics or sedatives will be prescribed. Patients will require intubation and supportive respiratory care with the use of a ventilator.

In the event of kidney failure, dialysis is necessary. In hemodialysis, an artificial kidney (hemodialyzer) is used to remove waste and extra chemicals and fluid from your blood.

I hope I have answered your questions.
Regards,
Maryann