The risk of infection after a dog bite is high and it’s important to know what to look for and when you need to take action. If an infection gets out of hand, sepsis is just one serious complication that can develop and without proper treatment, this condition can be fatal.
Keep reading to learn more about preventing sepsis after a dog attack, and see how Mazow | McCullough, PC can help you get financial compensation for your injuries.
What Is Sepsis?
Sepsis occurs when bacteria from a dog bite enters the bloodstream and triggers the body’s immune response. It’s also sometimes called septicemia, toxemia, or blood poisoning. This response causes widespread inflammation throughout the body that damages blood vessels and prevents organs from getting crucial oxygen and nutrients.
Contrary to popular belief, sepsis deaths are not caused by the pathogen itself, but rather, the extreme immune response that overwhelms the body’s internal systems. If left untreated, sepsis is often deadly. While treatments for dog-bite-related sepsis are usually successful, not all patients are responsive to them and may still experience septic shock.
Who Is Most At Risk?
Anyone can develop sepsis after a dog bite, but some individuals are more at risk for developing this condition than others, like:
- People with weakened immune systems
- People taking certain medications
- People with medical conditions like cancer or HIV
- People with liver problems
- People who have recently undergone surgery
- Elderly individuals
- Young children
- Diabetics
These and other medical conditions that affect the body’s ability to fight off bacteria after a dog bite make the risk of developing sepsis even higher.
Toxemia Prevention Strategies
Keeping the bite clean while it heals is one of the most effective ways to prevent sepsis. This keeps bacteria from multiplying on the surface of the wound and traveling through the bloodstream. You may also need to use an antibiotic ointment on the bite and should take any medications exactly as prescribed by your physician. If your tetanus vaccine is out of date, it’s a good idea to go ahead and get one now.
Signs of Septicemia
Early detection of sepsis after a dog bite is crucial for successful treatment and recovery. Monitor your progress for symptoms of infection and a strong immune response, like:
- Fever and chills. This is a sign that your body is raising its core temperature in an effort to kill bacteria. This typically doesn’t happen when an infection remains localized.
- High heart rate. An elevated pulse is often present along with a fever and can also signal widespread infection. The body can usually accommodate this change, but for people with underlying heart conditions, a fast heartbeat could prove to be problematic.
- Severe weakness and fatigue. If you constantly feel tired no matter how much you sleep, this could be an indication that your organs aren’t getting enough oxygen.
- Confusion or disorientation. Sepsis that has progressed to the point of affecting brain function can cause confusion, memory loss, and other alarming cognitive symptoms.
Treatment for Sepsis
In most cases, sepsis is treated at the hospital and patients will stay several days under the careful watch of medical professionals. Treatment usually includes intravenous antibiotics and fluids, but other medications may be administered to improve blood pressure and organ function if needed.
Sometimes, surgery is needed to remove bacteria-filled tissue and drain fluid. Patients are usually able to go home once they are no longer at risk of serious complications, but it may take a few more weeks to feel normal.
How Our Salem, MA Dog Bite Sepsis Lawyers Can Help
How you respond in the days after getting bitten by a dog can have a big impact on how well the wound heals and whether any complications come your way. If you or a family member were attacked by a dog, you need a serious, compassionate lawyer who can help you understand the process of filing a lawsuit against the owner of a dangerous dog and zealously advocate for you at every stage of your case.
If you or a family member were hurt by a dog, reach out to our Salem, MA dog bite attorneys today by calling (978) 744-8000 or toll free at (855) 693-9084 and we can help you get started.
