Blood Poisoning Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

The first symptoms depend on the site of the infection.

As the condition progresses to sepsis, symptoms include:

Fever and chills
Low temperature
Paleness of skin color
Listlessness
Changes in mental status
Rapid breathing
Increased heart rate
Decreased urine output
Low blood pressure
Shock
Problems with bleeding or clotting

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. If sepsis is suspected, the doctor will try to find the source of the infection.

Tests include:

Several blood cultures to confirm the diagnosis of sepsis
Urine and other blood tests to check for signs of infection
Cultures of urine , sputum, stool, and other secretions to check for bacteria or other infectious agents
X-rays —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside of the body
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside of the body
Other specialized tests depending on the source of the infection

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