What is typically noticed in septic shock regarding body temperature?

In septic shock, it is common for body temperature to be elevated, although it may also present as normal or even low in some cases. This variability is due to the body’s response to infection and the inflammatory processes involved in sepsis. Hyperthermia, or an increase in body temperature, can be a reflection of the body working to fight off the infection, as fever is a common physiological response.

Septic shock may also manifest with other signs and symptoms such as tachycardia, hypotension, and altered mental status. While fever is a standard feature, it is important to note that not all patients will exhibit a high temperature. In fact, some may display hypothermia or normal temperature, particularly in the elderly or those with a compromised immune response, making the situation complex. Therefore, the response of body temperature in septic shock is variable, which supports the idea that it "can be high."