Septicemia: What Are the Symptoms of Blood Poisoning?

When you have an infection, the last thing you want is for it to become more severe. However, some infections can escalate quickly and dangerously into a life-threatening condition called septicemia, also known as blood poisoning. This condition affects over a million Americans each year and requires immediate medical attention. Here's what you need to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of septicemia.

What Is Septicemia?

Septicemia occurs when bacteria from an infection in the body—often in the skin, lungs, urinary tract, or intestines—enters the bloodstream. Once the bacteria reach the blood, they can spread quickly, causing widespread inflammation and triggering a dangerous immune response.

While often used interchangeably with sepsis, septicemia refers specifically to the bloodstream infection itself. Sepsis is the body’s extreme reaction to that infection, which can lead to organ failure, tissue damage, and septic shock—a life-threatening condition.

Early Symptoms of Blood Poisoning

Symptoms of septicemia often appear suddenly and worsen rapidly. If you or someone you know shows signs of blood poisoning, it’s critical to get to the emergency room immediately.

Common symptoms include:

• High fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or confusion
• Rapid breathing or heart rate
• Cold or pale extremities
• Red dots or patches on the skin
• Severe pain or discomfort
• Sensitivity to light
• Extreme fatigue or lethargy

If untreated, septicemia can escalate into sepsis and eventually septic shock, which can be fatal.

What Causes Septicemia?

Septicemia is caused by bacterial infections that spread into the bloodstream. Common sources include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Pneumonia and other lung infections
• Kidney infections
• Skin infections or open wounds
• Abdominal infections

The most common bacteria responsible include:

• Staphylococcus aureus (Staph)
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)
• Streptococcus species

Improperly cooked food, poor hygiene, and open wounds can also increase the risk of infection entering the bloodstream.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to septicemia, including:

• Hospitalized patients with existing infections
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• People undergoing cancer treatments or living with chronic illness
• Older adults and infants

According to the CDC, 1 in 3 hospital patients who die had sepsis, highlighting how serious this condition can become when not caught early.

Can You Prevent Septicemia?

While not all cases are avoidable, there are preventative steps you can take:

• Practice good hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Care for wounds properly – Clean and cover cuts or injuries and avoid touching them with unwashed hands.
• Stay healthy – Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough rest to support immune function.
• Manage chronic conditions – Conditions like diabetes, cancer, or autoimmune disorders can increase vulnerability, so regular checkups are essential.
• Get vaccinated – Stay up to date on pneumonia, flu, and other vaccines that can reduce infection risk.

When to Seek Help

If you notice signs of blood poisoning—especially fever with rapid breathing, confusion, or severe discomfort—seek emergency care immediately. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics and fluids can save lives.

Trusted Infection and Urgent Care in the Bay Area

Whether you're managing a chronic infection or concerned about symptoms of sepsis or septicemia, BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our physicians provide expert care across the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, including primary care and specialty services, such as our infectious disease department.

Schedule an appointment with BASS Medical Group