If you can't answer these questions, don't worry. You are not alone. Nearly half of Americans have never heard of the condition and more than a third cannot even identify the symptoms associated with it.

Let's start by defining what sepsis is and why is it so important to know the symptoms?

Sepsis is the body's extreme and faulty response to an infection, and without timely treatment, can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.
 

Here's how it works. Your immune system usually works to fight any germs to prevent infection. If an infection does occur, your immune system will try to fight it, although you may need help with medication. However, for reasons researchers don't understand, sometimes the immune system stops fighting the "invaders," and begins to turn on itself. This is the start of sepsis.

Now onto some fast facts.
 

Sepsis is the primary cause of death from infection with more than 30 million cases reported each year across the globe. In fact, sepsis causes more deaths than prostate cancer, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS – COMBINED!

The most obvious risk factor is an infection. However, the source of infection can be wide-ranging; from the tiniest source, such as a bug bite or hangnail to the more severe, such as pneumonia or meningitis. No matter the size, infection can trigger sepsis. The infection can be bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic.

Some people are at higher risk of developing sepsis because they are at higher risk of contracting an infection. These include the very young, the very old, those with chronic illnesses and those with a weakened or impaired immune system.

Just like strokes or heart attacks, sepsis is a medical emergency that requires rapid diagnosis and treatment. Researchers estimate that every hour that passes before sepsis is treated, the risk of death increases by 7.6%.

Time is the enemy for patients with sepsis as their bodies are mounting a massive, life-threatening response to infection that can destroy tissue and damage organs in a matter of minutes. With sepsis, seconds count!

By recognizing the signs of sepsis and seeking treatment when symptoms are first noticed, you can save lives and reduce long-term disabilities.

September is Sepsis Awareness Month. It's About TIME is a national initiative to raise awareness of sepsis and the need to seek treatment when symptoms are recognized.

T: Temperature – higher or lower temperature than normal

I: Infection – may have signs and symptoms of an infection

M: Mental Decline – confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse

E: Extremely Ill – severe pain, discomfort, shortness of breath

If you experience a combination of these symptoms, seek urgent medical care, call 911 or go to the hospital immediately.