Sepsis is a serious condition that happens when your body's response to infection causes damage to your own tissues. Many people think fever is the main warning sign, but sepsis can show up in more subtle ways.
As healthcare professionals, we have learned a lot about sepsis care over the last 20 years, and early recognition can truly save lives. At Banner Gateway Medical Center, our team has worked hard to improve sepsis care because we know how important it is to catch these signs early.
The CDC describes sepsis as a life-threatening medical emergency. Signs can include confusion, shivering or feeling very cold, high heart rate, shortness of breath, extreme pain or discomfort, and clammy or sweaty skin. Learn more from the CDC sepsis page.
Here are five subtle signs everyone should know.
1. Abnormal Vital Signs, Especially a Fast Heart Rate
Most people think of fever first when it comes to infection. But fever is not always present. A fast heart rate can be one of the clues that your body is working hard in response to infection, especially when there is no obvious reason like exercise or stress.
2. Confusion or Not Acting Right
This is one of the most important signs, especially in older adults. If someone suddenly seems confused, disoriented, unusually sleepy, or just "off," infection and sepsis need to be considered. Sometimes an older adult with a urinary tract infection or pneumonia may not have classic symptoms at all.
3. Unusual Weakness and Fatigue
We all get tired, but sepsis-related fatigue is different. It can come on suddenly or feel much worse than normal tiredness. Think of it like your body's battery suddenly draining because it is working overtime to fight infection.
4. Chills and Shaking
Chills that make you shake uncontrollably, sometimes called rigors, are never something to ignore. Even if you do not have a measured fever, shaking chills can be an important warning sign of a serious infection.
5. Just Not Feeling Right
Sometimes the most subtle sign is that gut feeling that something is wrong. Your body is like a smoke detector; it often knows there is a problem before the symptoms fit neatly into a checklist. If you feel significantly worse than usual, especially with any combination of the signs above, get checked.
Why Early Recognition Matters
Sepsis care has changed dramatically over the last two decades. Hospitals track sepsis closely because early treatment can make a real difference. When sepsis is recognized early, clinicians can start fluids, antibiotics, monitoring, and source control sooner.
When to Seek Help
If you notice a combination of these symptoms, especially in older adults, babies, people with chronic medical conditions, or anyone with a weakened immune system, do not wait. Call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 if symptoms are severe.
Sepsis can happen to anyone, but it is more common in people with weakened immune systems, chronic illness, very young children, and adults older than 65.
The Important Thing to Remember
Sepsis does not always announce itself with an obvious high fever. By knowing the subtle signs, you can be an advocate for yourself and your loved ones.
Trust your instincts, know the warning signs, and never hesitate to seek medical care when something does not feel right. Early recognition and treatment save lives.
— Dr. Eric Cummins, MD