Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious medical condition caused by a bacterial infection. This condition is the result of toxins produced by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. Staphylococcus Aureus produces a toxin which is absorbed into the bloodstream. The toxin rapidly overwhelms the immune system and attacks the major organs causing serious health issues that can be fatal. Originally TSS was linked to use of highly absorbent tampons or tampons that were not changed frequently. In the last few years TSS has also been linked to the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome can vary from person to person. In most cases, symptoms appear suddenly. Common signs of this condition include:
- a sudden fever
- low blood pressure
- headache
- muscle aches
- confusion
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- rash
- redness of eyes, mouth, and throat
- seizures
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms then you need to seek medical services immediately.
Researchers aren’t exactly sure how tampons may cause toxic shock syndrome. Some believe that when superabsorbent tampons are left in place for a long time, the tampons become a breeding ground for bacteria. Others have suggested that the superabsorbent fibers in the tampons can scratch the surface of the vagina which would allow bacteria or their toxins to enter the bloodstream directly.
Women can reduce their risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome by:
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious medical condition caused by a bacterial infection. This condition is the result of toxins produced by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. Staphylococcus Aureus produces a toxin which is absorbed into the bloodstream. The toxin rapidly overwhelms the immune system and attacks the major organs causing serious health issues that can be fatal. Originally TSS was linked to use of highly absorbent tampons or tampons that were not changed frequently. In the last few years TSS has also been linked to the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome can vary from person to person. In most cases, symptoms appear suddenly. Common signs of this condition include:
- a sudden fever
- low blood pressure
- headache
- muscle aches
- confusion
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- rash
- redness of eyes, mouth, and throat
- seizures
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms then you need to seek medical services immediately.
Researchers aren’t exactly sure how tampons may cause toxic shock syndrome. Some believe that when superabsorbent tampons are left in place for a long time, the tampons become a breeding ground for bacteria. Others have suggested that the superabsorbent fibers in the tampons can scratch the surface of the vagina which would allow bacteria or their toxins to enter the bloodstream directly.
Women can reduce their risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome by:
- Changing tampons regularly - as often as directed on the pack.
- Using tampons only once in a while (not regularly) during menstruation.
- Avoid using highly absorbent tampons. Always use a tampon with the lowest absorbency suitable for your period flow.
- When using one at night, insert a fresh tampon before going to bed and remove it in the morning.
- Always remove a tampon at the end of a period.
- Because staphylococcus bacteria are often carried on hands, it's important to wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting a tampon.
- Between menstrual periods, store tampons away from heat and moisture (where bacteria can grow.)
- Discard any tampons you may have unwrapped and not used immediately.
- Any female who has recovered from TSS should not use tampons.
