Bacterial Infection in Blood: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment - Verywell Health
Bacteria are an important part of our environment and our bodies. While most of them are harmless or even helpful, bacteria in the blood (bacteremia) can cause infection. There are several types of infections that can be caused. If you have sepsis symptoms like fever, rash, rapid heartbeat, or confusion you should seek medical care immediately, because a blood infection can be deadly.
Continue reading to learn more about bacterial infections in the blood, including how to recognize septicemia and sepsis symptoms, and how to get the help you need.
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Types of Bacterial Infections in the Blood
Bacteria are a natural, healthy part of our bodies, especially in certain areas like the skin or gut. These areas are known as microbiomes. Science still hasn't determined whether healthy humans have a blood microbiome (naturally occurring bacteria in the blood).
However, when certain bacteria get into the bloodstream, they can cause a bacterial infection in the blood. While terms like "septicemia," "sepsis," "blood infection," and "blood poisoning" are sometimes used interchangeably, there are important differences among them, such as:
- "Bacteremia" is a term meaning a bacterial infection of the blood.
- "Sepsis" is the term for a life-threatening inflammatory response.
- "Septicemia" is another term for "sepsis," but is not used in the medical community
- "Septic shock" is a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood pressure caused by sepsis.
- "Blood poisoning" is a non-medical term used to describe any infection of the blood. This term is often used interchangeably with septicemia.
- "Blood infection" is a general term for any infection of the blood. This is most often septicemia but can also include blood infections caused by viruses.
Causes
Bacterial infections in the blood almost always develop after you've had another infection somewhere else in your body. Since your immune system is weakened from the original infection, it's less effective at fighting off the blood infection.
A bacterial infection in your blood is known medically as bacteremia. This often leads to a more serious condition called sepsis, which is an inflammatory reaction throughout the body. Sepsis can be life-threatening, especially if you develop septic shock, which can cause an extreme drop in blood pressure and organ failure. If you have an infection that gets worse, it's important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid life-threatening complications.
Infections that can lead to bacterial infections in the blood include:
If you develop a fever or begin feeling very ill after having an infection, call your healthcare provider immediately.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a bacterial infection in the blood are the same as those of blood poisoning. They include:
- Fever and chills
- Sweating
- Pain and discomfort
- Racing heart or fast heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion or disorientation
- Light-headedness and dizziness
If you experience these symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider immediately. If your blood infection goes untreated, it can lead to more severe symptoms of sepsis, including:
- Widespread inflammation
- Blood clots
- Organ failure
- Decreased urine output
- Worsening symptoms of blood poisoning
Eventually, you could experience symptoms of septic shock, including severe pain, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
Treatment
A bacterial infection in the blood requires immediate treatment in a hospital. The first step is to administer powerful antibiotics via a tube inserted into the vein called an intravenous line (IV). These are medications that kill off bacteria. You'll likely stay on them for at least a week.
Since the symptoms and effects of sepsis vary from person to person, other treatments will be tailored to you and your symptoms. Most people get IV fluids, which help prevent a drop in blood pressure. Because sepsis is so serious and can affect your vital functions and organs, you might need more intensive care, including a breathing tube or dialysis.
Prevention
A bacterial infection in blood can't be entirely prevented. However, you can reduce your risk of infection by:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Keeping cuts or wounds bandaged
- Exercising and eating healthy
- Managing health conditions like diabetes or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Getting help immediately if an infection gets worse or you suspect sepsis
Summary
A bacterial infection in your blood is known medically as septicemia. This often leads to a more serious condition called sepsis, which is an inflammatory reaction throughout the body. Sepsis can be life-threatening, especially if you develop septic shock. If you have an infection that gets worse, it's important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid life-threatening complications.
A Word From Verywell
Many people try to avoid their healthcare provider, especially if they've been seen recently for an infection. However, a bacterial infection in the blood can quickly become life-threatening. If you believe you have blood poisoning, call your healthcare provider or go to the hospital emergency room immediately.
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