Blood poisoning describes the condition in which bacteria have gained access to the blood stream. They are propelled to different areas of the body where they can produce a localized infection. In addition, some bacteria produce toxic substances that can be dispersed throughout the body through the blood stream.
Causes of Blood Poisoning
Blood poisoning or sepsis usually begins when a localized infection is spread to the blood steam. It can begin from an infection in some other body part, such as appendix, tooth, sinus, pelvis, gallbladder or urinary tract. Damage to the skin, such as abscess or burns, can also lead to blood poisoning. Intravenous lines and foreign bodies placed into the person for medical reasons can lead to rapid sepsis, or blood poisoning, since they have direct access to the blood stream.
Signs and Symptoms of Blood Poisoning
Blood poisoning or sepsis is a very severe infection. The most common symptoms include shaking chills, rapid temperature rise, rapid, pounding heartbeat, warm, flushed skin, confusion and other symptoms of mental impairment. When the bacterial infection is overwhelming, there may be a drop in blood pressure and death can occur. Certain bacteria can also release substances that cause dilation of the blood vessels. This can also lead to severe lowering of the blood pressure, shock and death. Rapid breathing is commonly seen.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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