Doctors identify signs and symptoms of sepsis after Kyle Busch’s death

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – We’re learning more about the condition that led to the death of NASCAR Legend Kyle Busch. Busch’s family says he developed sepsis after a severe case of pneumonia.

“You can see these patients deteriorate minutes to hours. They can deteriorate right in front of your eyes in the emergency room,” Dr. Daniel Feinstein, critical care specialist at Novant Health said.

Busch’s family said the 41-year-old was hospitalized Wednesday when he struggled to breathe and coughed up blood. Doctors say the immune system releases chemicals to fight off bacteria but sepsis causes the immune system to go into overdrive.

“Breathing complications related to bleeding with your breathing, again, mental status changes or those patients who are having confusion, lightheadedness, fast heart rate, significant high temperatures,” Dr. Feinstein said.

Doctors at Novant Health say sepsis can turn fatal for people who have compromised immune systems.

“Overwhelmingly, pneumonia is the most common source that the body is responding to, but certainly we see other sources like urine or abdomen or even skin that can be the source of infection causing sepsis,” Dr. Feinstein said.

Around 24 hours after he was admitted to the hospital Busch died. Doctors say every second counts for treatment with rapid fluids and antibiotics to prevent organ failure.

“My message is that time matters in sepsis care, and so we need to get you in to see your medical provider, emergency room if you’re having concerns of pneumonia in sepsis,” Dr. Feinstein said.