Sepsis is the body’s life-threatening response to an infection that has entered the bloodstream. This condition triggers a chain reaction, and understanding its signs is important for seeking timely medical care. People concerned about a serious illness often look for information about specific symptoms, including changes in bowel movements. These changes are part of a larger picture of how the body responds to a systemic infection.
How Sepsis Affects the Digestive System
During sepsis, the body initiates a systemic inflammatory response that can disrupt the digestive tract. The body redirects blood flow away from the intestines to supply organs like the brain and heart. This reduction in blood flow to the gut is a condition known as ischemia.
When the intestines do not receive enough blood, the tissue can become damaged. The inflammation also directly impacts the gut lining, making it more permeable. A more permeable gut allows fluids to leak and can permit bacteria from the intestine to pass into the bloodstream, worsening the systemic infection.
This combination of reduced blood flow and inflammation impairs the gut’s ability to absorb nutrients and move waste. The normal rhythmic contractions of the intestines, known as peristalsis, may slow down or stop altogether, setting the stage for bowel-related symptoms.
Common Bowel Changes During Sepsis
The term “sepsis poop” refers to a range of bowel changes that can happen during sepsis. These changes are a direct result of the digestive system’s response to the infection, and symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition.
One common change is diarrhea. This can be caused by the initial infection itself or by the widespread inflammatory response disrupting normal water absorption in the colon. Significant fluid loss from diarrhea can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
In other cases, sepsis can lead to a condition called ileus, which is a temporary paralysis of the bowel. When the intestines stop their normal movements, waste cannot be propelled through the digestive tract. This leads to severe constipation, abdominal bloating, and discomfort.
The stress on the digestive system can sometimes cause bleeding. Blood in the stool may appear dark and tarry if it originates from the upper GI tract, or redder if the bleeding is in the lower intestinal tract. This can result from stress ulcers or tissue damage caused by the lack of adequate blood flow.
Sepsis Symptoms Beyond Bowel Changes
Bowel changes alone are not enough to indicate sepsis, as they can be caused by many other conditions. These signs become more concerning when they appear with other classic symptoms of sepsis. The body’s response to a systemic infection involves multiple organ systems, leading to a constellation of signs that point toward a medical emergency.
Key indicators of sepsis include a significant change in body temperature, which could be a high fever or an unusually low temperature. A rapid heart rate is also a common sign. An individual may experience shortness of breath or rapid breathing.
Changes in mental status are another important signal. This can range from mild confusion and disorientation to extreme difficulty in waking up. The person might complain of severe pain or a general feeling of being extremely unwell. Their skin may become clammy or sweaty. If these symptoms are present, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary.