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Warning-sign checks

Septic shock: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Suspected septic shock is an emergency.

    Call emergency services now if someone with a possible or known infection has:

    • New confusion, severe drowsiness, or difficulty waking
    • Severe breathing difficulty
    • Collapse, fainting, or signs of very low blood pressure
    • Blue-grey, very pale, cold, or blotchy skin
    • Little or no urine
    • Rapid deterioration or an overwhelming sense of serious illness

    Call emergency services if severe symptoms develop.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait for a fever or rash, because neither is required for septic shock.

    After hospital discharge, seek urgent medical advice for a returning fever, worsening breathlessness, reduced urination, new confusion, a rapidly worsening wound, or other signs of infection.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate for ongoing fatigue, weakness, poor sleep, memory problems, low mood, or difficulty returning to daily activities when these are stable and not rapidly worsening.

The article also says

Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, confused, or severely unwell.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Septic shock. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.