The outcomes of Septic shock

It has been proven that bacterial toxins can, together with the immune system which responds to them, cause a dramatic drop in blood pressure, preventing the delivery of blood to the vital organs. What is the greatest danger of this septic shock? Well, experts are saying that septic shock can lead to multiple organ failure including respiratory failure, and may cause rapid death.

Before we skip to the probable cause of septic shock, we should first mention several details about the infection and bacterial toxins. The fact is that, when any kind of infection sets in, certain types of bacteria can produce and release complex molecules, called endotoxins. It is a proven fact that these endotoxins may provoke a dramatic response by the body's immune system.

 

The most important fact is that when released in the bloodstream, these endotoxins are dangerous, because they become widely dispersed and affect the blood vessels themselves. It is normal that these arteries and the smaller arterioles open more widely in response, but at the same time, the walls of the blood vessels become leaky, allowing fluid to seep out into the tissues, lowering the amount of fluid left in circulation. It is logical to assume where all this leads! Several research studies done in the past have shown that this combination of increased system volume and decreased fluid causes a dramatic decrease in blood pressure and reduces the blood flow to the organs.

Under what circumstances does septic shock commonly occur?

Well, although there are no rules, most experts would say that the condition of septic shock is seen most often in patients with suppressed immune systems, and it is usually due to bacterial infections acquired during treatment at a hospital. How come? Well, there are two reasons.

 

First — the immune system is suppressed by the drugs used to treat cancer, autoimmune disorders, organ transplants, and diseases of immune deficiency such as AIDS, all of which are commonly used in hospitals. And second — the bacteria that are found in hospitals are much more resistant then the “usual” types found in other places!

 

Some research studies done on septic shock patients have shown that this syndrome most often occurs in menstruating women using highly absorbent tampons. How come? Well, it is easy to explain – these tampons, when left in place longer than other types; provide the perfect breeding ground for Staphylococcus bacteria, which may then enter the bloodstream through small tears in the vaginal wall.