Sepsis
Sepsis is a medical emergency. Learn the warning signs, when to get immediate help and what treatment and recovery can involve.
A guide for patients and carers
Get emergency help if sepsis is suspected
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you think someone may have sepsis. Do not wait for every symptom to appear. Do not drive yourself to A&E.
Warning signs to act on
In adults and children aged five or over, warning signs include very fast breathing, confusion or slurred speech, blue, pale or blotchy skin, a very high or low temperature, or a rash that does not fade under pressure.
In babies and younger children, breathing difficulty, unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking, poor feeding, an abnormal cry, or no urine for 12 hours are also concerning. Skin colour changes may be easier to see on the palms or soles in people with darker skin. Trust your concern that something is seriously wrong.
What is sepsis?
Sepsis happens when the body’s response to an infection becomes harmful to its own tissues and organs. It can progress quickly and become life-threatening. Infections that lead to sepsis can start in the urinary tract, lungs, skin or digestive system.
Anyone can develop sepsis. Some people have a greater risk, including those with underlying health conditions or recent hospital care. A urinary infection is one possible starting point, but most ordinary infections do not lead to sepsis. Rapid recognition and treatment are important when someone becomes seriously unwell.
Assessment and treatment in hospital
The healthcare team will assess breathing, circulation, temperature and other signs, and look for the source of infection. Tests may include blood and urine samples or imaging. Staff also monitor how much urine is produced because this helps them assess kidney function and circulation.
Treatment may include antibiotics, fluids through a vein and oxygen when needed. The team will review treatment as results become available. People who are very unwell may need intensive care or other support for affected organs. The exact plan depends on the infection, the person’s condition and their care needs.
Recovery and support
Recovery is different for everyone. Some people return to their usual health, while others experience persistent tiredness, weakness, disturbed sleep, memory difficulties or emotional distress. These changes deserve support and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Work with your team on a rehabilitation plan. Build activities up gradually, allow time to rest and set small, achievable goals. A diary can help track progress and prepare questions for follow-up. Family or carers may also need information about what happened and what support is available.
After leaving hospital
Ask who to contact if recovery is difficult or symptoms change. If an infection develops after previous sepsis, get medical advice promptly; a worsening infection needs urgent assessment. If you have had sepsis in the past 12 months and develop symptoms of infection, call NHS 111. For possible sepsis, use the emergency advice above.
Sources & further reading
NHS — sepsis symptoms and urgent help
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS — hospital care
CDC — recovery and rehabilitation
Information checked against the sources above on 22 September 2026. This general guide supports conversations with your healthcare team and does not replace personal medical advice.
