Septic Shock Is A Complication of Infection More Often Occuring In Elderly Individuals

Septic shock is what happens as a complication of an infection where toxins can initiate a full-body inflammatory response. It often occurs in people who are elderly or have a weakened immune system.

It is thought that the inflammation resulting from sepsis causes tiny blood clots to form, which can block oxygen and nutrients from reaching vital organs. As a result, the organs fail, causing a profound septic shock. This may cause a drop in blood pressure and may result in death. In fact, septic shock is the most common cause of death in intensive care units in the United States.

Doctors have identified three stages of sepsis:

• Sepsis, when an infection reaches the bloodstream and causes inflammation throughout the body.
• Severe sepsis, which occurs when infection disrupts blood flow to the brain or kidneys, leading to organ failure. Blood clots cause gangrene (tissue death) in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes.
• Septic shock, when blood pressure drops significantly. This can lead to respiratory, heart, or organ failure and death.