Sepsis signs to be aware of as BBC physician delivers serious alert

BBC Morning Live's regular medical expert Dr Ranj has shared a stark warning that sepsis may be mistaken for common conditions like flu, or even a hangover. The doctor and author was back in the studio on Monday, where he spoke to presenters Michelle Ackerley and Gethin Jones about crucial symptoms to keep an eye on.

Gethin expressed his worry, stating, "Certain symptoms might be confused with the flu or other seasonal illnesses," and pressed Dr. Ranj for more information regarding sepsis. Dr. Ranj clarified, "Sepsis can be a critical condition, as it may arise from any form of infection. While it's uncommon, it occurs when the infection is either particularly severe or when the immune system fails to respond correctly."

According to the doctor, approximately 50,000 individuals tragically succumb to sepsis annually in the UK, which averages out to about five people every hour. He further explained that the symptoms "can resemble those of other illnesses, especially in the initial phases, leading to potential misdiagnosis as flu or even hangover symptoms."

Highlighting risk factors, he pointed out that sepsis might be more common with particular pathogens such as meningitis, Group B strep in infants, and UTIs in older adults, adding that "Very small children, the elderly and those with immune system problems" are especially vulnerable.

Michelle inquired about the specific symptoms to be aware of, and Dr. Ranj responded: "Symptoms can vary significantly between young children and adults. They can be challenging to identify, and there isn't a single test available to diagnose sepsis."

Nevertheless, he mentioned that there are several common symptoms, which can be summarized with the mnemonic SEPSIS, as outlined below:

• Slurred speech of confusion
• Extreme shivering or muscle pain
• Passing no urine (in a day)
• Severe breathlessness
• It feels like you're going to die
• Skin mottled or discoloured

NHS guidance further advises people to all 999 or go to A&E if a baby or young child has any of the following symptoms:

• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
• difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage), breathlessness or breathing very fast
• a weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry
• not responding like they normally do, or not interested in feeding or normal activities
• being sleepier than normal or difficult to wake

Alternatively, if an adult or older child exhibits any of these symptoms:

• acting confused, slurred speech or not making sense
• blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
• a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
• difficulty breathing, breathlessness or breathing very fast