“Let’s talk about sepsis."
Dr Amir Khan shared a warning about sepsis and urged the public to take the condition seriously.
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to infection begins attacking its own tissues and organs.
According to the UK Sepsis Trust, around 245,000 people are affected by sepsis in the UK each year.
Of these, 48,000 die, equating to roughly four people every hour. Sepsis kills more people than some cancers and, in many cases, is preventable with early diagnosis and treatment.
To raise awareness, Dr Khan took to social media to share vital information.
He said: “Let’s talk about sepsis. Now, sepsis occurs when your immune system has a dangerous reaction to an infection.
“Normally, when you have an infection, your immune system works to try to fight it.”
But this immune response can become dangerous.
Sometimes, instead of fighting the infection, the immune system begins damaging organs and tissues, leading to widespread inflammation and the risk of multiple organ failure.
Dr Khan continued: “This reduces blood flow to different parts of your body and causes significant damage or even organ failure.
“It can happen as a result of any type of infection.”
He explained that this can be triggered by an abnormal chain reaction in the body’s clotting system, which may lead to blood clots forming in blood vessels.
Certain groups are especially vulnerable.
Dr Khan said: “The people who are most at risk of sepsis are those aged over 65, newborns and infants, pregnant women, those with underlying medical conditions and weakened immune systems, and anyone with things like catheters or tubes in place.”
Sepsis is a medical emergency, and early treatment saves lives.
@doctoramirkhann Sepsis is a serious medical emergency that needs immediate attention It can happen in response to any infection and occurs when our immune systems start over responding to an infection and cause problems in heal #doctoramir #doctoramirkhan #doctor #medical #health #chronicillness #gp #gpbehindcloseddoors #doctors #whatieat #protein #healthy #whatieatinaday #drkhan #mamkahn #eathealthy #healthyliving #foryoupagee ? original sound – Dr Amir Khan GP
Dr Khan warned: “Now, sepsis is a medical emergency and if you think anyone is suffering from sepsis, get prompt medical advice.
“The quicker you seek treatment, the better their outcome will be.”
The NHS advises calling 999 or visiting A&E immediately if a baby or young child has symptoms of sepsis.
These include rapid breathing, a rash that does not fade when pressed, blue, grey or blotchy skin, or being difficult to wake.
For adults and older children, red flags include confusion, slurred speech, discoloured skin, difficulty breathing or a rash that remains visible under pressure.
If you suspect sepsis but symptoms are less severe, the NHS recommends calling 111 for guidance on what to do next.
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