What are the symptoms of sepsis?
The hallmark symptoms of sepsis include high fever with shivering or an abnormally low temperature, a fast heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion or disorientation, and clammy or discolored skin — usually in someone with a known or suspected infection. Any of these signs is a medical emergency.
The Sepsis Symptom Picture
Sepsis develops when an existing infection — such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection, a skin or wound infection, or an abdominal infection — triggers a body-wide reaction. The symptoms reflect that whole-body response, not just the original infection site. Sepsis can move quickly, so recognizing the pattern early is critical.
Common signs and what they signal:
- Fever, shivering, and chills — or an abnormally low body temperature. Either extreme can indicate the body is overwhelmed.
- Fast heart rate (racing or pounding pulse). The heart works harder as blood pressure begins to drop.
- Rapid, shallow breathing or shortness of breath. A sign the body is struggling to get enough oxygen.
- Confusion, disorientation, slurred speech, or unusual drowsiness. Reduced blood flow to the brain is one of the most important warning signs.
- Extreme discomfort, severe pain, or a feeling of “I’m going to die.” Patients often describe the worst they have ever felt.
- Clammy, sweaty skin, or skin that looks pale, blotchy, mottled, or bluish.
The Dangerous Warning Signs (Septic Shock)
Some symptoms mean sepsis has advanced toward septic shock, where blood pressure falls dangerously low and organs begin to fail. Treat these as immediately life-threatening:
- Very low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting
- Little or no urine output over several hours
- Skin that stays discolored or mottled, or lips/fingertips turning blue
- Loss of consciousness or inability to stay awake
Symptoms in Children and Older Adults
Signs can be subtle in infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. In babies and young children, watch for fast breathing, a seizure, unusual lethargy or difficulty waking, refusal to feed, or a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it. Older adults may show confusion or weakness before an obvious fever appears.
Because these symptoms overlap with less serious illnesses, err on the side of caution. For a complete guide, see our sepsis page. If you notice these signs, call 911, walk in to Bellaire ER 24/7, or call (713) 660-0001.