Sepsis: Know the Signs, Act Fast

Sepsis in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection — a life-threatening medical emergency. Without fast treatment, sepsis can quickly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. It affects more than 1.7 million adults in the U.S. each year. The key message from the CDC is simple: know the signs, and act fast. If you think you or a loved one has sepsis, get medical care immediately.

Almost any infection — a urinary tract infection, pneumonia, a skin or wound infection, or COVID-19, flu, or other illness — can lead to sepsis.

Warning signs

Sepsis can include any combination of:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Extreme pain or discomfort (“I feel like I might die”)
• ClaMmy or sweaty skin
• High Heart rate or weak pulse
• Shortness of breath
• High fever, shivering, or feeling very cold

A useful way to remember the most urgent signs is TIME:

• T — Temperature higher or lower than normal
• I — Infection (signs or symptoms of one)
• M — Mental decline: confused, sleepy, hard to wake
• E — Extremely ill: severe pain, “I feel like I might die,” shortness of breath

Act fast

If you suspect sepsis:

• Seek care immediately — go to the emergency department or call 911.
• Say “I am concerned about sepsis.” This phrase helps care teams act quickly.
• If someone has an infection that is getting worse instead of better, don’t wait.

Sepsis is treated with antibiotics, IV fluids, and close monitoring — and every hour matters. Grand Rapids hospitals, including Corewell Health Butterworth (West Michigan’s Level I trauma center), are equipped to treat sepsis around the clock.

Who is at higher risk

• Adults 65 and older
• Infants under 1 year
• People with chronic conditions (diabetes, lung, kidney, or liver disease)
• People with weakened immune systems
• Recent severe illness, hospitalization, or surgery

Prevent infections that lead to sepsis

• Stay up to date on vaccines (flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal, RSV as recommended).
• Clean and care for wounds, and watch for redness, swelling, or pus.
• Practice good hand and personal hygiene.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes.
• Know the signs of infection — and act early.