Sepsis Awareness Month: My Family's Story and Why Every Second Counts

November last year became a pivotal month for my family. My mum was diagnosed with Sepsis, a severe and life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. It's a medical emergency, and acting fast is absolutely critical.

For over six weeks, Mum had been battling a persistent chest infection. Despite three separate courses of antibiotics, she just wasn't getting better. Given her other health conditions, her GP was understandably cautious about prescribing more antibiotics and instead sent her for a chest x-ray. The x-ray showed a shadow on her lungs, which was initially thought to be scarring. We were advised to review the situation in six weeks. Despite our growing concerns about how unwell she seemed, we followed the advice, trusting that the doctors knew best.

However, Mum's condition rapidly declined. We had to call 999. It was the paramedics who arrived that day who spotted the critical warning signs of Sepsis. I dread to think where we would be today without their swift recognition.

At A&E, they acted immediately on the paramedics' advice. The treatment pathway for Sepsis began even before the blood test results confirmed the diagnosis, that's how urgently they needed to respond. Thanks to shared access to medical records, A&E quickly reviewed the earlier chest x-ray and confirmed that the shadow was, in fact, pneumonia. This crucial discovery revealed that the initial infection had been incorrectly treated and left too long, ultimately developing into Sepsis.

The Doctors, Nurses, and Healthcare Assistants in A&E and on her ward were truly incredible throughout Mum's treatment. Thankfully, she was home in time for Christmas.

However, the road to recovery from Sepsis is often long and challenging. Mum still experiences lasting cognitive issues and some lingering physical symptoms. But despite these ongoing struggles, I am eternally thankful that, ultimately, she is still here with us.

What is Sepsis? The Silent Killer

Sepsis is the body’s life-threatening response to an infection. It can be triggered by any infection, from a cut to pneumonia, flu, or a UTI. Without quick treatment, Sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.

Key Facts about Sepsis in the UK:

• Around 250,000 people are affected by Sepsis in the UK annually.
• At least 48,000 people die from Sepsis in the UK every year. This is more than bowel, breast, and prostate cancer combined.
• One in five people who survive Sepsis will experience life-changing after-effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, fatigue, and organ damage.
• Early recognition and treatment can save lives and reduce the severity of long-term effects.

The Warning Signs: Think Sepsis!

Recognising Sepsis can be challenging because its symptoms can be subtle and mimic other common illnesses like the flu. However, if an infection is getting worse or not getting better, and you have any of these symptoms, it's vital to seek urgent medical attention. Don't hesitate to ask, "Could this be Sepsis?"

Think Sepsis if you or someone you know shows any of these signs:

• Slurred speech or confusion
• Extreme shivering or muscle pain
• Passing no urine (in a day)
• Severe breathlessness
• It feels like you're going to die
• Skin mottled or discoloured

For children, look for:

• Looks mottled, bluish, or pale
• Is very lethargic or difficult to wake
• Feels abnormally cold to touch
• Is breathing very fast
• Has a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it
• Has a fit or convulsion

Why Awareness Matters

My mum's story is a powerful reminder that Sepsis can strike anyone, at any age, from any infection. It highlights how easily its symptoms can be mistaken for something less serious, and how crucial it is for medical professionals and the public alike to "Think Sepsis."

This Sepsis Awareness Month, I urge everyone to learn the signs and to trust their instincts. If you suspect Sepsis, don't delay, get help immediately. Your quick action could save a life!