How Sepsis Is Treated
Sepsis is a common infection, frequently in the bloodstream, that may quickly turn deadly if not diagnosed and treated properly. There are two main treatments of sepsis. As sepsis is usually a bacterial (vs a viral infection), antibiotics are the first line of defense. In many cases, the antibiotics are usually administered through an IV. The choice of antibiotic is important, and are usually broad spectrum, meaning the antibiotic may work on many different kinds of infection.
With additional testing, usually a culture which takes several days, the antibiotic may narrow to a more specialized antibiotic targeting the specific infection for the individual. Individuals may also require IV fluids to support blood pressure and keep organs properly perfused. Low blood pressure from septic shock, a leading cause of death in sepsis, may require a second kind of drug (in addition to IV Fluids) called a vasopressor, a medication specifically designed to elevate blood pressure.
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