What is sepsis?

Overview

When someone has an infection, the immune system normally fights it in a controlled way. In sepsis, that response spreads through the body and starts to injure the body's own tissues and organs.

Sepsis is diagnosed by clinicians using a combination of examination, vital signs, laboratory testing, and clinical judgment. Phoenix Health Compass does not diagnose sepsis or interpret any test result.

Signs and symptoms people are taught to watch for

Public health organizations describe a cluster of warning signs. They are educational prompts to seek professional care — not a checklist that confirms or rules out sepsis.

• High heart rate or weak pulse
• Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
• Confusion or disorientation
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Clammy or sweaty skin

Who is at higher risk

Risk is higher for adults 65 and older, infants, people with weakened immune systems, people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, or kidney disease, and people recovering from recent hospitalization or surgery.

Septic shock

Septic shock is a severe stage in which blood pressure drops and organs may not receive enough blood flow. It is treated in a hospital, often in an intensive care unit.

Recovery and post-sepsis syndrome

Many survivors describe fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty concentrating, sleep changes, and anxiety for weeks or months after leaving the hospital. Clinicians often refer to this pattern as post-sepsis syndrome.

Recovery planning, rehabilitation, and follow-up care are handled with your care team. Phoenix Navigator supports day-to-day recovery routines once your clinicians have set your plan.