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FreeFlow Fast Facts - Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

 


What is it?

 

TSS is a rare but serious and life-threatening condition that is caused by toxins released by two specific bacteria Streptococcus pyognes or Straphylococcus aureus, that enters the bloodstream. It often occurs from tampon and menstrual cup use.

 

What are the symptoms?

 

§  A fever above 39C

§  Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle ache, chills, headache

§  Widespread sunburn-like rash

§  Low blood pressure

§  Nausea and/or vomiting

§  Dizziness 

§  Confusion

§  Diarrhoea

§  Redness of eyes, lip and tongue

§  Seizures

§  Peeling of the skin on palms and soles of feet

§  Decreased urine output

§  Bruising

 

See a doctor immediately if you have symptoms, especially if you have recently used tampons or have a skin or wound infection.

 

What causes it?

 

As already mentioned above, it is caused by bacteria that enters the bloodstream. Around half of reported cases have been linked to tampon use in menstruating women, with the remaining cases occurring in other circumstances. Although it is often linked to tampon use in menstruating women, it can affect any gender and age. TSS has been associated with having skin infections via cuts or burns on your skin, recent surgery, using contraceptive sponge or diaphragm, using superabsorbent tampons or menstrual cups, recent childbirth, or miscarriage, and having a viral infection.

 

Complications

 

TSS can progress rapidly. Complications may include:

 

§  Shock

§  Renal failure

§  Death

§  Amputation of fingers, toes, or limbs

 

How is it diagnosed?

 

No specific test can diagnose TSS but there will usually be a physical examination and assessment of history. Diagnostic tests may include a blood test and a urine test to test for the presence of a staph or strep infection.

 

How is it treated?

 

TSS is a medical emergency, and it requires prompt care. If you have TSS, you’ll be admitted to an intensive care unit, and treatment may include:

 

§  Antibiotics for the infection

§  Oxygen to help breath

§  Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and organ damage

§  Medicine to regulate blood pressure

§  Dialysis if your kidneys are failing

§  Surgery or amputation of affected area (rare)

 

How to prevent it?

 

To prevent TSS, it is important to maintain good menstrual hygiene. 

 

§  You should change your menstrual hygiene products every 4 to 8 hours.

§  If you have had TSS before, avoid using tampons because the chances of reinfection are high.

§  Use menstrual pads instead of tampons or use low absorbency tampons or alternate between tampons and pads.

§  Wash hands before and after inserting tampons.

 

Also, keep all wounds clean and bandaged, and check for signs of infection.

 

Minimise usage of vaginal foreign body items such as tampons, diaphragms, and sponges.


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