One trigger of the condition is septicaemia, when bacteria enters the bloodstream and causes blood poisoning.
According to the NHS, sepsis presents with the following symptoms in adults:
– Confusion, slurred speech or not making sense
– Blue, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue
– A rash which does not fade when pressed on
– Breathlessness, breathing very fast or general breathing difficulty
In babies, parents may notice these additional symptoms:
– A weak, high-pitched cry that’s not like their normal cry
– Not responding as they usually would, no interest in feeding or other activities
– Sleepier than normal or difficult to wake