Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, but life-threatening illness with symptoms that include: fever, shock and damage to certain vital body organs. Toxic shock syndrome is often associated with tampon use during a woman's menstruation, but, besides tampon use, there are several other factors that may lead to the disease.
Causes
According to MedlinePlus, the main cause of toxic shock syndrome is "a toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria," which is a common bacteria that exists on the skin and inside the noses of most people without causing harm. This bacteria becomes dangerous, however, when it enters an open wound and goes into the bloodstream.
Symptoms
A main symptom of toxic shock syndrome is a very high fever, which is occasionally accompanied by chills, confusion, nausea, headaches, diarrhea and vomiting, notes MedlinePlus. As the disease progresses, severe problems, like liver and kidney failure and seizures, are noted. Reddening of the mouth, throat and eyes, as well as a red rash spreading all over the body may also occur. About one or two weeks after the initial presentation of the rash, the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet starts to peel.
Treatment
Treatment usually begins with removing any foreign substances lodged in the body, such as a tampon. Excess fluids are drained from the area of infection, and doctors may also give antibiotics to treat the infection. In cases of severe organ failure, particularly of the kidneys, dialysis will be performed. If toxic shock syndrome is not treated in a timely manner, it may result in death. Moreover, there is a chance that the disease may return even after treatment.
Risk Factors
MedlinePlus presents a list of risk factors for toxic shock syndrome, including: a current staph infection on the body, a tampon left in the body for a very long time, use of diaphragms or vaginal sponges, childbirth, menstruation, and surgery. Though toxic shock syndrome was primarily detected in women who used tampons, MedlinePlus explains that postmenopausal women, children and men are also at risk for this disease.
Warning
Contact a doctor immediately if you develop a high fever or rash while menstruating, particularly if you have been using tampons during the entire course of your menstruation. A fever or rash following recent surgery is also cause for concern. Getting medical help as soon as possible after noting these symptoms may be the difference between life and death.
You can prevent toxic shock syndrome using tampons with low absorbency or by switching to pads and sanitary napkins. The Mayo Clinic advises changing your tampon often, about "every four to eight hours," to minimize your chances of getting this infection. Moreover, the Mayo Clinic says that women who have had any previous instances of strep or staph infection should avoid tampon use altogether.
