Many people who survive sepsis recover completely and their lives return to normal. However, as with some other illnesses requiring intensive medical care, some patients have long-term effects. These problems may not become apparent for several weeks (post-sepsis), and may include such consequences as:
• Insomnia, difficulty getting to or staying asleep
• Nightmares, vivid hallucinations, panic attacks
• Disabling muscle and joint pains
• Decreased mental (cognitive) functioning
• Loss of self-esteem and self-belief
• Organ dysfunction (kidney failure, respiratory problems, etc.)
• Amputations (loss of limb(s)
