Septic Shock

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Septic Shock

Septic shock (/ˈsɛptɪk ʃɒk/) is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that occurs as a result of severe infection and sepsis, leading to dangerously low blood pressure and abnormalities in cellular metabolism.

Etymology

The term "septic shock" is derived from the Greek word "septikos" meaning "putrefactive" and the Middle English word "shokken" meaning "to shake or hit with force". It was first used in medical literature in the late 19th century to describe the severe physiological response to infection.

Definition

Septic shock is a subset of sepsis with particularly profound circulatory, cellular, and metabolic abnormalities. It is associated with a greater risk of mortality than sepsis alone. It is characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure that can lead to respiratory or heart failure, stroke, failure of other organs, and death.

Symptoms

Symptoms of septic shock include:

  • Fever or hypothermia
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Rapid breathing
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Shortness of breath
  • Extreme pain or discomfort
  • Clammy or sweaty skin

Causes

Septic shock is caused by an infection that overwhelms the body, often due to bacteria in the bloodstream. However, it can also be caused by other types of infection, such as fungal or viral infections.

Treatment

Treatment for septic shock typically involves antibiotics to fight the infection, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, and vasopressors to constrict the blood vessels and increase blood pressure. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove sources of infection.

Related Terms

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