What began as a simple visit to the GP for a pain she believed was a pulled muscle nearly cost a British mother her life after a catastrophic misdiagnosis missed the signs of deadly sepsis.
Charlotte Henson, 34, recalls the terrifying ordeal that saw her health deteriorate rapidly after initially being sent home with advice to take painkillers. Her story serves as a stark warning about the silent danger of sepsis and the importance of recognising its symptoms.
A Race Against Time
"I genuinely thought I was going to die," Charlotte revealed, describing the moment her condition worsened dramatically at home. "The pain became unbearable, unlike anything I'd ever experienced. I knew in my gut that this was far more serious than a simple muscle strain."
Despite clear symptoms that something was critically wrong, medical professionals initially dismissed her concerns. It was only when her family insisted on further investigation that the truth emerged: Charlotte was suffering from sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the body's response to infection causes tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
The Crucial Symptoms Everyone Should Know
Sepsis claims approximately 48,000 lives in the UK each year, with early detection being critical for survival. Charlotte's experience highlights the vital signs that both patients and medical staff must recognise:
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Pale or mottled skin
- Difficulty breathing
- High heart rate
- Confusion or disorientation
- A feeling that you might die
"I want people to trust their instincts," Charlotte urges. "If you feel something isn't right, keep pushing for answers. That persistence saved my life."
Recovery and Advocacy
After weeks of intensive treatment and recovery, Charlotte is now using her experience to raise awareness about sepsis recognition and diagnosis. Her story has sparked conversations about medical protocols and the importance of listening to patients when they report that something feels seriously wrong.
"The message isn't to distrust doctors," she explains, "but rather to encourage everyone to be their own health advocate. Knowing the signs of sepsis and being persistent could make the difference between life and death."
