Symptoms of infantile sepsis include fever, rapid breathing, loss of appetite, and pale skin, requiring immediate medical attention. Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. Infants, whose immune systems are not fully developed, are at higher risk of infection. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent the condition from worsening.
1. Fever: One of the common symptoms of infantile sepsis is fever, with body temperature possibly exceeding 38°C. Fever is the body's immune response to infection, but persistent high fever may indicate a serious infection. Parents should closely monitor the body temperature and seek medical attention promptly. Doctors will prescribe antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalosporins, or vancomycin as needed.
2. Rapid breathing: Sepsis can cause rapid breathing in infants, with a respiratory rate exceeding 60 breaths per minute. This is because the infection affects lung function, leading to insufficient oxygen supply. Doctors may administer oxygen therapy, and if necessary, use a ventilator to assist breathing, while also providing anti-infective treatment.
3. Loss of appetite: In infants with sepsis, loss of appetite or refusal to feed may occur. Infection accelerates metabolism, consuming a large amount of energy, making infants prone to fatigue and weakness. Parents should ensure the infant's adequate fluid intake and, if necessary, supplement nutrition and electrolytes through intravenous fluids.
4. Pale skin: Sepsis can cause pale skin or bruising in infants. This is due to impaired blood circulation caused by the infection, leading to insufficient blood supply to the skin. Doctors will perform blood tests to assess the extent of the infection and adjust the treatment plan accordingly, which may include antibiotics, immunoglobulins, or plasma exchange.
The symptoms of infantile sepsis are varied, and parents should closely observe their infants for any unusual behavior. If any of the above symptoms are observed, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving the cure rate and preventing the condition from worsening. Doctors will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the specific situation to ensure the infant receives timely and effective care.