Septic Shock: Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Do You Have a Septic Shock Medical Malpractice Lawsuit?

Septic shock causes a deadly drop in blood pressure due to invasion of bacteria in the blood. Septic shock is caused when certain types of bacteria are released in the bloodstream causing blood vessels to leak seeping into the tissues lessening the amount of fluids left in circulation. This causes a vital decrease in blood pressure and reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the organs.

Bacteria invade the body in many ways: Bacteria run rampant in hospitals through surgical procedures, catheters, childbirth, and intravenous procedures to name a few. Septic shock is frequently but not always seen by patients with suppressed immune systems due to chemotherapy and radiation, autoimmune disorders, organ transplants, and AIDS.

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Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacteria that is found in the lower intestine of 10-35% of all healthy adults and in the vagina and/or lower intestine of 10-35% of all healthy, adult women. GBS bacteria are a normal part of the commonly found bacteria in the human body. In certain circumstances, Group B Strep bacteria can invade the body and cause serious infection. Approximately 8,000 babies in the United States contract serious GBS. Ten percent of these babies may die, and up to 20 percent of the babies who survive GBS-related meningitis are left permanently handicapped with long-term medical problems and learning disabilities. About half of all GBS disease occurs in newborns and is acquired during childbirth when a baby comes into direct contact with the bacteria carried by the mother.

Septic shock symptoms include fever, malaise, chills, and nausea. The first sign of shock is often confusion and decreased consciousness. Initially, limbs are usually warm. Later, limbs become cool, pale, and bluish. Fever may give way to lower than normal temperatures. Other symptoms include rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, decreased urination, reddish patches on the skin.

People with septic shock need immediate medical attention and the correct diagnosis. Septic shock is initially treated with a combination of antibiotics and fluids. The antibiotic is chosen based on the bacteria present, although two or more types of antibiotics may be used initially until the organism is identified. Coagulation and hemorrhage may be treated with transfusions of plasma or platelets. Respiratory distress is treated with mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen.

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Has septic shock occurred in a loved one because of a bacterial infection during childbirth, during a hospital stay, from bed sores caused by nursing home neglect? Do you have a septic shock medical malpractice lawsuit?

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