Blood poisoning, also known as sepsis, is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, leading to inflammation and damage to vital organs. It is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Definitions
Blood poisoning is a condition in which bacteria or other harmful microorganisms enter the bloodstream and cause infection. This can lead to sepsis, a potentially fatal condition that can cause organ failure and death.
Origin
The term “blood poisoning” has been used for centuries to describe a variety of conditions that involve infection of the blood. The earliest recorded use of the term dates back to the 16th century, when it was used to describe a condition that was thought to be caused by the ingestion of poisonous substances.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, blood poisoning is “an acute or chronic disease caused by the presence of pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins in the blood.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a condition in which bacteria or other harmful microorganisms enter the bloodstream and cause infection.”
Associations
Blood poisoning is often associated with infections that are difficult to treat, such as those caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It can also be associated with medical procedures that involve the insertion of foreign objects into the body, such as catheters or IV lines.
Synonyms
Synonyms for blood poisoning include sepsis, septicemia, and bacteremia.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for blood poisoning, as it is a medical condition and not a concept that can be opposed.
The same root words
The root words of blood poisoning are “blood” and “poisoning.” Blood refers to the fluid that circulates through the body, carrying oxygen and nutrients to the cells and removing waste products. Poisoning refers to the presence of toxic substances in the body that can cause harm or death.
Example Sentences
- “The patient was diagnosed with blood poisoning after developing a fever and experiencing severe abdominal pain.”
- “Blood poisoning can be a complication of surgery or other medical procedures.”
- “The doctor prescribed antibiotics to treat the patient’s blood poisoning.”