Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a medical emergency that requires rapid treatment, as septic shock can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. One of the symptoms associated with sepsis is feeling sleepy or fatigued. In this article, we’ll explore the link between sepsis and sleepiness and discuss why sepsis can make you feel tired.
What is sepsis?
Sepsis occurs when an existing infection triggers a chain reaction throughout the body. An infection is typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that have entered the body. This could be something like pneumonia, a urinary tract infection, or an infected wound.
Normally, the immune system releases chemicals into the blood to fight an infection. With sepsis, the immune response goes into overdrive. The chemicals being released cause widespread inflammation which can lead to blood clots and leaky blood vessels. This prevents blood and oxygen from reaching vital organs. As the infection progresses, it can cause septic shock which leads to extremely low blood pressure and damage to multiple organ systems.
Some key facts about sepsis include:
- It’s triggered by infections – Most often by bacteria, but sometimes viruses or fungi.
- The immune system overreacts – Releasing excessive amounts of chemicals into the blood.
- It can lead to shock & organ failure – Due to reduced blood flow and oxygen.
- It is a medical emergency – Requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment.
What causes the feelings of fatigue with sepsis?
There are a few reasons why sepsis can leave you feeling exhausted and sleepy:
Low blood pressure
As sepsis progresses, it can lead to dangerously low blood pressure known as septic shock. With septic shock, the blood pressure drops to a point where blood and oxygen cannot get to the body’s organs and tissues properly. This lack of blood flow and oxygen causes the cells to become deprived of energy and stop functioning normally. The lack of oxygen and nutrients being delivered can make you feel profoundly weak and tired.
Changes in brain function
Sepsis can also affect brain function. With decreased blood flow, the brain cells may not get enough oxygen. Toxins released by the infection as well as chemical changes related to inflammation can also impact brain cell function. This impairment in how the brain cells work can make you feel confused, sluggish, and very sleepy.
Fatigue from fighting the infection
Your body is working extremely hard to combat the infection causing sepsis. The immune system kicks into high gear releasing chemicals to fight the infection. This taxes the body’s energy reserves.
Your body’s metabolism also revs up in response to the infection. All of this extra work being done by your body to battle the infection can leave you feeling depleted and overwhelmingly tired.
Muscle pain and body aches
The inflammation and toxins released during sepsis can cause generalized pain and achiness throughout the muscles and joints. Dealing with these uncomfortable symptoms can be exhausting both mentally and physically. The body aches may make it difficult to rest as well.
Other symptoms of sepsis related to fatigue
In addition to feeling sleepy, there are some other sepsis symptoms connected to extreme fatigue. These include:
- Weakness – Feeling profoundly weak and having no energy or strength.
- Dizziness – Feeling lightheaded and dizzy due to low blood pressure.
- Headache – Severe headaches caused by changes in brain function.
- Confusion – Becoming confused and not thinking clearly due to sepsis’s effects on the brain.
- Loss of appetite – Having no interest in eating due to fatigue and illness.
How is sepsis treated?
As sepsis is a medical emergency, treatment focuses on supporting any affected organs and stabilizing the patient. This includes:
- IV fluids – To increase low blood pressure.
- Vasopressors – Medications to increase blood pressure.
- Ventilator – Breathing support if needed.
- Treating the infection – With antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals.
- Treating any organ damage – Such as kidney dialysis.
If sepsis is caught early and treated quickly, patients have the best chance of recovering and avoiding complications. Seeking immediate medical care is crucial.
Will the fatigue and sleepiness go away?
For individuals who survive sepsis, the extreme tiredness and sleepiness should resolve as their condition improves. However, some people may experience fatigue that persists for weeks or months after sepsis.
Reasons fatigue may linger include:
- Continued weakness as the body recovers
- Organ dysfunction that has not fully resolved
- Post-traumatic stress from the illness
- Medication side effects
- Depression or anxiety after sepsis
Ongoing fatigue and exhaustion are common complaints of sepsis survivors. With time, rest, proper nutrition, medication adjustments, and sometimes physical rehabilitation, survivors typically regain their energy and return to normal activity levels. Seeking medical follow-up care is important.
When to see a doctor
It’s crucial to get urgent medical treatment if you or a loved one shows any signs of sepsis along with extreme fatigue. Seeing a doctor promptly can save lives.
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Confusion or sleepiness
- Fever, chills, or shivering
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Pale, clammy skin
- Rapid heart rate and breathing
- Decreased urine output
Let your doctor know if fatigue after sepsis does not improve over time. Ongoing medical care can help address any lingering effects or complications.
Conclusion
Sepsis can certainly leave you feeling extremely sleepy and fatigued. The decreased blood pressure, impact on brain function, fight against infection, and muscle aches all contribute to profound exhaustion. Seeking prompt treatment for sepsis gives the best chance for recovery. While fatigue may linger for some survivors, most are able to regain their strength over time with proper follow-up care. Being aware of the signs of sepsis and seeking immediate treatment can help avoid the most dangerous outcomes of this condition.