Sepsis becoming a ‘silent killer’ in Irish hospitals

Sepsis cases are rising in Ireland

In 2022, a total of 3,219 people died from sepsis in Irish hospitals.

The HSE confirmed that one in five people will die from the condition.

Speaking about the alarming numbers, a HSE spokesperson told The Mirror:

"We extend our sympathy to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives to sepsis.

"Sepsis requires urgent medical attention and can hide behind any infection, at any age making it harder to detect," they added.

13,000 people are diagnosed with sepsis in Ireland every year, but 15,000 cases were diagnosed in 2022.

It is a life-threatening complication of an infection which can often be fatal.

Patients can make a full recovery if it is identified and treated quickly.

However, it can lead to multiple organ failure and death if people don't get treatment quickly.

Awareness of the signs and symptoms is key, as well as trusting your gut if you're concerned about sepsis.

The HSE has urged anyone with concerns to always seek medical support immediately, even if they're not 100% certain.

The signs of sepsis

According to the HSE, the main symptoms of sepsis in adults include:

• pounding in your chest
• difficulty breathing, breathing rapidly, or breathlessness
• slightly blue or blue lips
• dizziness or feeling faint
• feeling clammy and looking pale
• cold hands and feet
• not peeing as frequently
• a rash that doesn't fade
• severe muscle pain
• severe leg pain or trouble standing
• diagnosed with an infection and is not getting better after 24 hours

Anyone with even one of these symptoms has been urged to seek medical attention.

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