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Blood Infections

Info_lover | May 3, 2010 |

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Blood infection is also known as sepsis, which is a serious health condition caused by infection of blood due to the presence of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, infectious agents and toxins. This article dwells on the blood infection causes as well as its symptoms. These harmful microorganisms can cause blood infections in any part of the body by spreading to the blood stream, especially if the immune system is not strong enough to prevent their invasion.

In the event that the immune system tries to prevent the infection of the bloodstream, small blood clots can be formed in the blood vessels and they can block normal blood flow and the supply of oxygen to the body organs. When tissues and organs do not receive sufficient oxygen, they fail to function normally and over time this can lead to organ failure and eventual death if not treated on time. Such a medical condition is called shock. This article dwells on blood infection causes, their symptoms, risks, the various blood infection types and lastly, the treatment methods.

Blood infection causes

Chronic illnesses. They make it hard for the body's immune system to fight infection. Some examples of chronic illnesses are diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver and HIV/AIDS. When infections are aggressive in nature and cannot be controlled with antibiotics, they can enter the person's bloodstream and cause sepsis outbreak.
Bacterial blood infection. They are the most common cause of blood infections. Pneumonia, urinary tract infections and appendicitis can all lead to blood infections if they are not properly treated and managed. Also, viral and fungal infections can enter the bloodstream and cause infection in the blood. Candida is the most commonly known fungal cause of bacteria infection in blood.
Dirty needles. IV drug use can cause blood infections when dirty needles are shared among drug users. Bacteria are directly introduced into the bloodstream when a dirty needle is inserted into a vein. Tattoos and piercings that are performed with dirty instruments can also introduce infectious organisms into the blood thus resulting in blood infection. Anyone considering a tattoo or piercing should choose a reputable professional to avoid getting a blood infection

Blood infection symptoms

One of the most common symptoms of blood infections is fever which is usually accompanied by chills and shivering. Confusion, disorientation, dizziness can also be symptoms. The patient may also develop skin rashes which are small, red spots spreading throughout the body. Other symptoms of blood infection may include an unusually high or low white blood cell count. A person with a blood infection can have rapid breathing and a fast heart beat. Sometimes, a blood infection can also result in a rash or pain in the joints.

Risks of blood infection

People with weak immune systems are more likely to be at risk of blood infections. Also, prolonged stay in the hospital can lead to an increased risk of blood infections. Also, people who either have diabetes, AIDS, infectious diseases or undergo chemotherapy can be at risk for blood infections. Babies can also be at risk since their immune systems are not fully developed. The elderly folks, especially those diagnosed with diabetes, can be at higher risk as well.

Various types of blood infections

Bacteremia. It is a bacteriological infection of the blood which can occur when bacteria attacks the body through a wound. It may also occur when a medical procedure is taking place, during dental work or even during an injection. Symptoms include feeling ill, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, chills and a sudden fever. This infection is serious and hospitalization is required to flood the body with antibiotics. Untreated, bacteremia can lead to infection of the blood.
Sepsis. This medical condition actually triggers the body's immune system into actually hurting your own body. It can result in a drop in blood pressure levels which can be fatal, also known as septic shock. In the later stage, there may be unusual heart functions, breathing difficulties or very little urination. Any of these may indicate a malfunction of the human organs. The third stage is called septic shock, which includes a drastic drop in blood pressure.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This infection that causes AIDS, attacks the human immune system through the blood. It is usually spread through contact with blood from an infected carrier. Symptoms may include swollen glands, a sore throat, headaches, diarrhea, muscle pains and fatigue. Current treatment methods include a "drug cocktail" therapy method which contains an antiviral combination.

Diagnosis and treatment for blood infections

Blood infections are generally diagnosed with the help of blood tests and blood cultures. Test methods such as chest X-ray and CT scan are carried out to pinpoint locations of infections in the body. Very often, antibiotics are prescribed by the doctors to destroy the harmful bacteria that cause staph infection in the blood. If the patient's condition is very bad, he or she may be admitted to the intensive care unit for further observation.

Effectiveness of treatments for blood infections depends on factors that include the age of the individual as well as any other ongoing medical conditions. If the individual is already struggling with a serious disease, then the chances of recovery become lesser. However, healthy individuals with no serious underlying medical condition can recover rapidly when prompt treatment is administered.