Following reports that NASCAR star Kyle Busch had tragically died after developing sepsis, medical experts have highlighted key warning signs to be aware of.
Busch was reported to have died on May 21 at the age of 41 after being taken to hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina, with what was described as a “severe illness.”
It has since been stated that the two-time Cup Series champion had pneumonia, which later triggered sepsis — a serious bloodstream infection.
That sequence of events reportedly led to Busch being found unconscious in a driving simulator one day before his death, according to the New York Post.
Sepsis is often referred to as a “silent killer” because its early symptoms can look like those of other common illnesses.
When it isn’t identified and treated quickly, a person’s condition can worsen rapidly.
The Mayo Clinic describes sepsis as a “serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection,” explaining that it occurs when “the infection-fighting processes turn on the body, causing the organs to work poorly.”
One possible complication is septic shock, which involves “a dramatic drop in blood pressure that can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs.”
In severe cases, these complications can be fatal.
Sepsis symptoms can differ between individuals, but potential red flags include shivering, sweating, dizziness or feeling faint, rapid and shallow breathing, and noticeable changes in mental state.
When pneumonia is part of the picture — as it was reported to be in Busch’s case — the clinic notes that a “worsening cough” may also occur.
For septic shock, signs may include being unable to stand, struggling to wake up or remain awake, and experiencing extreme confusion.
A statement shared on behalf of Busch and his loved ones described him as a “rare talent,” adding that his death had deeply impacted the “entire NASCAR family.”
The statement was issued jointly by NASCAR, Richard Childress Racing, and Busch’s family.
In the hours before his reported death, his family had said he would be unable to take part in two upcoming races, according to PEOPLE.
Busch had been scheduled to compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race on May 22, as well as the Coca-Cola 600 on May 24.
“A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. NASCAR lost a giant for the sport today, far too soon,” it read.