Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a serious infection caused by bacterial toxins entering the bloodstream, with symptoms including fever, rash, and vomiting. It can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus bacteria, and can enter the body through open wounds, surgical sites, or mucous membranes. Menstruating women using tampons are at greater risk, and should follow instructions and not leave them in for more than eight hours. Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a serious infection caused by bacterial toxins that enter the bloodstream. Low-level infections can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and rash, while severe infection can cause systemic shock, which can be fatal. Many people are familiar with the link between toxic shock syndrome and tampons, which was established in the 1980s, but there are actually a number of causes for the condition. Being aware of the causes and symptoms can help you get toxic shock syndrome early, before the infection becomes serious.
There are two different forms of toxic shock syndrome. One is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, or staphylococcus, bacteria, while the other is caused by Streptococcus or strep throat. Staph is still often present on the body, but sometimes it takes advantage of changing conditions and becomes more aggressive and much more dangerous. Either way, toxic shock syndrome emerges when toxins secreted by these bacteria enter the bloodstream.
An open wound can promote toxic shock syndrome, as it can be colonized by harmful bacteria. Toxins can also enter the bloodstream through nose collection, surgical sites, extremely sore throats, and changes in the natural environment of other mucous membranes, such as the vagina. That’s why it’s important to keep wounds clean, since no one wants a case of toxic shock syndrome. In a hospital setting, medical staff try to pay particular attention to cleanliness, as environmental levels of harmful bacteria tend to be higher.
Menstruating women need to be especially careful about toxic shock syndrome, because using tampons can put a woman at greater risk for the condition. Tampons from the late 1970s and early 1980s, originally linked to toxic shock syndrome, have since been removed from the market, but leaving any brand of tampon on for an extended period of time can promote infection bacterial. Women should follow the directions on the tampon package, and a tampon should generally not be left in for longer than eight hours.
If you experience a sudden and extremely high fever associated with a rash, altered level of consciousness, body aches, vomiting, headache, and diarrhea, you may have toxic shock syndrome. Women who are menstruating or using contraceptive sponges should remove these devices and consult a doctor immediately. Other people should make a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible, especially if they have recently had surgery or have large open skin wounds.
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