Recovering from sepsis and post-sepsis syndrome

It is estimated that 260,000 people experience sepsis in the UK each year and this translates to the staggering fact that someone in the world dies of sepsis every 3.5 seconds.

Sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is the immune system’s overreaction to an infection or injury. Normally our immune system fights infection – but sometimes, for reasons we don’t yet understand, it attacks our body’s own organs and tissues. If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death. Yet with early diagnosis, it can be treated with antibiotics.

Having sepsis can be frightening, and there are different physical, psychological and emotional symptoms that you may experience during your recovery. Those who survive can be left with life-changing results of sepsis, such as amputations. Around half of sepsis patients develop Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS), which is a condition comprising physical and psychological changes that occur as a result of sepsis.

Stephanie Moustache recently visited The UK Sepsis Trust who are working to raise awareness of sepsis and offer support. Their latest campaign highlights the long-term health impacts and recovery faced by patients who have survived sepsis. They provide a telephone helpline where you can talk to a trained nurse with experience of sepsis and recovery. They also hold support groups for anyone affected by sepsis.

At Anthony Collins Solicitors, we welcome and support the campaign by The UK Sepsis Trust to raise awareness of sepsis, stop preventable deaths and support those affected. More information about the symptoms of Post-Sepsis Syndrome and available help can be found here.

Sepsis and clinical negligence claims

The devastating effects of sepsis can occur even when medical professionals provide excellent care. However, sometimes injury can result from substandard medical care, such as multi-organ failure, after a delay in diagnosis and commencing effective treatment.

Our clinical negligence team is experienced in sepsis care cases. Stephanie Moustache is a medico-legal advisor and supports the lawyers in the team on all medical aspects of their work. As the first point of contact for new clients, she can empathise and use her nursing/medical knowledge and skills to act as an interface between the client and the legal process.

Further information

If you have any questions relating to this ebriefing or sepsis or would like help to bring a medical negligence claim, please contact Stephanie Moustache, and she will be happy to speak to you on an initial free, no obligation basis.

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