Toxic Shock Syndrome Health Video

Toxic shock syndrome is the end result of a bacterial toxin, most often staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus pyogenes. Learn more about toxic shock syndrome including treatments and symptoms in this medical video.

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Avoid using tampons
Avoid using contraceptive sponges & diaphragms
Wash your hands regularly

About this Author

Dr. Ulrich joined On Call Medical Group in 2006. She had previously practiced at Doctors Medical Center in Richmond, Calif., and prior to that worked with the uninsured and homeless population of San Francisco at the Haight Ashbury Free Medical Clinic. Throughout her medical career, Dr. Ulrich as also been involved in numerous medical research studies. Dr. Ulrich holds a B.S. from Harvard University, an M.P.H. for the University of California at Berkeley, and an M.D. from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

SKYLAR ULRICH, MD: Hi. I'm Dr. Skylar Ulrich. I'm going to talk about toxic shock syndrome. Toxic shock syndrome results from the body's reaction to the release of a toxin by bacteria that has entered into the body. It is generally caused by the use of diaphragms, tampons, the contraceptive sponge, but can also be introduced by other methods. Symptoms generally are high fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, and development of a rash within the first 24 hours. Treatment of toxic shock syndrome requires the use of parenteral antibiotics. This means IV antibiotics are generally indicated, as well as treatment of any of the symptoms, and restoration of appropriate of blood pressure and fluid status. Prevention of toxic shock syndrome is by avoiding the use of tampons, contraceptive sponges, diaphragms, as well as good handwashing.

Toxic Shock Syndrome Health Video

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