A Wirral mother who nearly died from toxic shock syndrome is urging others to recognise the warning signs of sepsis after her life was saved by the quick actions of her son and NHS medics.
Deb Whyte was admitted to intensive care at Arrowe Park Hospital after collapsing at home. She had been ignoring symptoms including painful, stiff joints, exhaustion and a rash.
Deb said: "I felt unwell, my joints were painful and stiff, I was exhausted and I had a rash, but I had no idea my condition could quickly become life-threatening. I tried to push through, thinking I could manage it myself. I now know those early signs shouldn’t be dismissed, which is why awareness is so important."
Collapsed within 24 hours
Within 24 hours Deb collapsed at home and was taken to hospital by her son, where she was placed in a medically induced coma and treated for toxic shock syndrome — a rare and life-threatening complication of sepsis. Doctors believe the infection may have started from something as minor as a paper cut which became badly infected.
The life-threatening crisis happened in 2008. Deb spoke out about the experience in recognition of World Sepsis Day on Sunday, September 13.
She said: "I was so unwell that I really feared I might not survive. My family were beside themselves with worry, sitting by my bedside, not knowing if I would pull through."
Hallucinations and recovery
While in intensive care, Deb experienced vivid hallucinations, at one point imagining she was on a spaceship.
She said: "It felt completely real. But my sister stayed by my bedside the entire time, talking to me, reassuring me, and keeping me connected to reality. Her presence helped pull me through."
Deb recalled how the ICU nurses washed her hair, brushed her teeth and cared for her with great kindness. She added: "They encouraged me to do things for myself as soon as I could. When you feel completely helpless, being able to regain some independence means everything."
Research nurse role and warning
Deb has since been to France with her daughter, who is about to start university there, and her son recently got married. She said she might not be here to share these proud moments if it had not been for the care of the Critical Care team.
Now a research nurse at Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH), Deb supports studies aimed at improving outcomes for patients with serious conditions. She said: "We’re grateful to everyone who takes part in the research studies we run, because it helps improve treatments for other patients."
She added: "If you notice any of the symptoms, seek help immediately. Trust your instincts. Acting quickly can save your life."
Dr Nikki Stevenson, joint chief medical officer at WUTH and Wirral Community Health and Care, said: "Deb’s experience shows just how suddenly sepsis can take hold and how vital it is that people recognise the signs and seek urgent medical help. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment give patients the very best chance of recovery. We are incredibly proud of the dedication and expertise of our intensive care teams, whose skill and compassion save lives every day."
Symptoms of sepsis in adults and older children include confusion, slurred speech, blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue, a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, and difficulty breathing. In babies and young children it also includes a weak, high-pitched cry that’s not like their normal cry, not responding like they normally do and being sleepier than normal, and not being interested in feeding or normal activities.
