Sepsis Awareness Month

Sepsis is a serious illness that can develop when the body’s normal infection-fighting reaction goes awry and can quickly become life-threatening. In severe cases, sepsis can weaken the heart, shut down other organs and may lead to death. Early recognition of patients with possible sepsis is critical for preventing severe outcomes. Sepsis currently affects more than 1 million people every year and the number of cases is on the rise, which is why September is Sepsis Awareness Month. Those at higher risk include people with weakened immune systems, infants, children and elderly people with chronic illnesses.

Pain Awareness Month

Nearly 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. September is Pain Awareness Month, which shines a spotlight on issues involving pain and pain management. Pain is meant to serve as a warning, indicating that the body has a problem that needs attention. Living with chronic pain, however, can become debilitating. Monument Health’s pain management team uses physical therapy, psychology and occupational therapy, and coordinates cognitive behavior therapy, surgical referrals, rehabilitative therapies and alternative therapies in order to treat chronic and acute pain.