5 Ways to Spot Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome

1. Soaring Fever May Mean Toxic Shock Syndrome

A sudden high fever, above 102 degrees F, may signal toxic shock syndrome (TSS), especially if you are or have just finished menstruating, have a skin wound, a surgical incision or infection or have given birth within the last 12 weeks. Alert your doctor if your fever spikes suddenly, since the high temperature could be your body fighting against TSS.

2. Pay Attention to Your Blood Pressure

Note any signs of a steep decline in blood pressure, or hypotension, a common TSS symptom. Cold, clammy skin, disorientation, headache, extreme fatigue, weakness, dizziness and lightheadedness all point to hypotension. When toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus invade the body and shut off oxygen to the heart, lungs and brain, your body goes into shock, causing your systolic blood pressure to plummet below 90 mm/Hg.

3. Report Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea to Your Doctor

Don't guess the cause of severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms, especially during menstruation or immediately afterward or when a wound is present, may signal TSS. Let your doctor know right away so you can either rule out or confirm TSS and begin appropriate treatment immediately.

4. Inspect Your Hands and Feet

A sunburn-like rash is another TSS symptom. Check the palms of your hands and soles of your feet, too. Typically, the rash peels about 1 week after the onset of TSS. But don't wait until that happens to seek medical care. Call your doctor right away if you notice a skin rash.

5. Don't Assume Achy Muscles Mean Flu

It's not safe to assume symptoms such as achy muscles, headache, reddened throat, mouth or eyes are the result of the flu. These symptoms also are associated with TSS. Call your doctor and get checked out promptly.