Below, doctors explain sepsis causes, symptoms, and treatment options. But before we get into more detail, it’s important to emphasize that sepsis is not a “wait and see” condition. “Abdominal infections like appendicitis, intestinal infections and gallbladder infections are the next most common source, contributing to 15 to 30% of cases. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for 15 to 30% of sepsis cases, followed by skin and soft tissue infections like cellulitis and infected wounds.” The chemicals can cause blood clots and leaky blood vessels, which can block the flow of blood to your organs and potentially cause them to shut down, according to the NIH.