Toxic shock syndrome is a potentially deadly complication of two common bacterial infections. Though most often associated with tampon use, only a little more than 1/2 of cases are related to tampon use, according to MedlinePlus. Anyone can develop toxic shock, including men and children.
Types
Toxic shock syndrome occurs when bacteria release a toxin into the bloodstream that can cause fever, shock and organ damage. Anyone with a Staphylococcus aureus, or staph, infection, including pneumonia, the blood infection septicemia, the bone infection osteomyelitis, or an abscess or skin infection, can develop toxic shock syndrome, according to KidsHealth from Nemours.
Toxic shock can also be caused by group A streptococcus, or strep infection, according to MedlinePlus. Though this is the same bacteria that causes strep throat, it is rare for the throat infection to cause toxic shock. Usually, toxic shock occurs when the strep bacteria infects the skin through a cut or other wound, according to Kids Health.
Risk Factors
You may be at risk of toxic shock syndrome if you have a staph or strep infection, have recently given birth, are currently menstruating or are using tampons. If you've recently had surgery or have a wound that's been packed, including a simple nosebleed, you are also at risk. Using a diaphragm or vaginal sponge for contraception can also put you at risk, according to MedlinePlus.
Researchers aren't sure why tampons cause toxic shock, but they suspect that tampons left in too long provide a favorable environment for bacteria to grow out of control. Tampons may also scratch the vagina, creating an opening for bacterial toxins to enter the bloodstream, according to MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms
The symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include high fever; faintness; nausea vomiting, and diarrhea; headaches and muscle aches; mental disorientation; breathing problems; seizures; low blood pressure; redness around the eyes, mouth and throat; and failure of the kidneys and liver.
Toxic shock syndrome can cause a rash that can be mistaken for a sunburn because it causes redness followed by skin peeling a week or two later, according to MedlinePlus. The rash is most common on the palms or the soles.
Treatment
Toxic shock syndrome is fatal in up to 1/2 its victims, so seek immediate medical care if you suspect an infection. The disease can be treated with antibiotics. Any tampons, surgical dressings or other foreign materials will be removed and infections drained. Additional drugs or treatments may be needed to treat complications of the disease.
Prevention/Solution
Toxic shock syndrome can be prevented with careful use of tampons. Use the least-absorbent product you can. Change your tampons frequently--at least every four to eight hours. It's also a good idea to use them sparingly during menstruation, according to MedlinePlus. Wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon.
Wash your hands often and keep any skin wounds clean and bandaged, recommends Kids Health from Nemours.
