The British TV director reportedly died from sepsis after an elective surgery
A celebrated British TV icon, Paul Stewart Laing, known for producing and directing classic 1970s shows such as Celebrity Squares and New Faces, has tragically passed away following elective surgery. He was credited with launching the careers of numerous stars like Marti Caine, Lenny Henry, and Victoria Wood.
Struggling with gallstone issues for years, an inquest at Exeter Coroner’s Court noted he underwent an elective surgery to remove his gallbladder. Making initial recovery strides post-surgery, Laing faced a sudden health decline nine days later leading to an emergency dash to Derriford Hospital by ambulance, reports Devon Live.
Diagnosed with sepsis, he underwent emergency surgery but sadly suffered a cardiac arrest under anaesthesia and died shortly afterward. Septicemia stemming from abdominal sepsis, linked to his recent gallbladder surgery, was determined as the official medical cause of death.
Known as a rare but serious complication post-surgery, sepsis progression can be rapid yet difficult to identify until it is perilously advanced. The NHS advises vigilance towards sepsis symptoms, which may resemble less severe health problems, and stresses the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if sepsis signs are suspected, encapsulated by the advice: “Trust your instincts.”
The symptoms of sepsis can vary depending on the age of the patient. Infants and young children may exhibit several warning signs, including blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue. These signs might be more noticeable on the hands or soles of the feet in children with darker skin tones. They may also develop a rash that doesn’t fade when a glass is rolled over it.
Other symptoms include rapid or difficulty breathing, such as grunting noises or their stomach sucking under their ribcage, breathlessness, loss of interest in feeding or being sleepier than usual. Adults and older children may also display blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue, which again may be easier to spot on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. Rashes, difficulty breathing and confusion, slurred speech or generally making less sense than usual can also be major warning signs.
Sepsis can be particularly difficult to identify in individuals who are generally less able to communicate their symptoms, such as babies, people with dementia, learning disabilities or communication difficulties. If you decide to go to A&E, the NHS recommends bringing any medications you usually take. If you’re not entirely sure it’s sepsis, it’s best to call 111 who can provide further advice on your symptoms.