Septicemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Septicemia?
An infectious disease doctor (a doctor who treats infections) or a critical care doctor (an intensive care doctor) usually treats septicemia in the hospital. An emergency medicine doctor (an emergency room doctor) may also help. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is septicemia?
Septicemia is an infection in the bloodstream that is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Doctors also call it sepsis. Another name for it is blood poisoning.
Sepsis is the body's extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. It may get worse very quickly. Without fast treatment, it can quickly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
Symptoms
A person with sepsis might have one or more of these signs:
- Clammy or sweaty skin.
- Confusion or disorientation.
- Extreme pain or discomfort.
- Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold.
- A high heart rate or a weak pulse.
- Rapid breathing and shortness of breath.
Severe cases can lead to septic shock, where blood pressure drops to a dangerous level and several organs can fail. Many of these signs can also be caused by other medical conditions, so sepsis can be hard to diagnose early on.
Causes and who gets it
Sepsis happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Bacterial infections cause most cases of sepsis. Viral infections, such as influenza, and fungal infections can also cause it.
The infection is often in the lungs, stomach, kidneys, or bladder. Sepsis can begin with a small cut that gets infected or with an infection after surgery.
Anyone with an infection could get sepsis, but some people are more likely to develop it:
- Adults 65 or older.
- People with long-lasting conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease.
- People with weakened immune systems.
- Pregnant women.
- Children younger than one.
How doctors diagnose it
A health care provider takes your medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms. The provider does a physical exam that includes checking vital signs (your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing). Lab tests check for signs of infection or organ damage. Blood cultures look for germs in the blood. An X-ray or a CT scan may be used to find where the infection is.
Healthcare providers should immediately evaluate and treat people who might have sepsis.
Treatment
It is very important to get treatment right away. Treatment includes giving antibiotics (medicines that kill germs) as soon as possible. Doctors also work to keep blood flowing to the organs, which may involve oxygen, plus fluids given through an IV (a small tube in a vein). Doctors also treat the source of the infection.
Some people need medicines to raise their blood pressure. In serious cases, a person might need kidney dialysis (a machine that cleans the blood) or a breathing tube. Some people need surgery to remove tissue damaged by the infection.
Antibiotic side effects range from a rash to life-threatening allergic reactions. When antibiotics are needed, the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects.
When to see a doctor
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you think you or someone else might have sepsis. Get medical care right away if you think you might have sepsis or if your infection is not getting better or is getting worse.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can check an infection that is not getting better and can send you to the hospital if sepsis is possible. They can also help you take good care of long-term health conditions.
Common questions
Is septicemia the same as sepsis?
Yes, septicemia is another name for sepsis. Some people also call it blood poisoning.
What causes septicemia?
Septicemia is caused by an infection that triggers a chain reaction throughout the body. Bacterial infections are the most common cause.
How is septicemia treated?
Septicemia is treated with antibiotics given as soon as possible. Doctors also work to keep blood flowing to the organs.
Who is more likely to get septicemia?
Adults 65 or older, people with weakened immune systems, and children younger than one are more likely to get septicemia. Anyone with an infection could get it.
Can septicemia be prevented?
You can lower your risk by trying to prevent infections. Get recommended vaccines. Practice good hygiene, such as handwashing. Keep cuts clean and covered until healed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Septicemia
- MedlinePlus - Sepsis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - About Sepsis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
