What Is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
If you're a girl who's had her period, you may have heard frightening stories about toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a serious illness originally linked to the use of tampons. But TSS isn't strictly related to tampons. The contraceptive sponge and the diaphragm, two types of birth control methods, have been linked to TSS. And, sometimes, the infection has occurred as a result of wounds or surgery, where the skin has been broken, allowing bacteria to enter.

TSS is a systemic illness, which means that it affects the whole body. It can be caused by one of two different types of bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes — although toxic shock that is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria is rarer. These bacteria can produce toxins. In some people whose bodies can't fight these toxins, the immune system reacts. This reaction causes the symptoms associated with TSS.

When people think of TSS, they often think of tampon use. That's because the earliest cases of the illness, back in the late 1970s, were related to superabsorbent tampons. Research led to better tampons and better habits for using them — such as changing tampons more often. The number of TSS cases dropped dramatically. Today about half of all TSS cases are linked to menstruation.

Aside from tampon use, TSS has been linked to skin infections that are typically minor and can be associated with the chickenpox rash. TSS has also been reported following surgical procedures, giving birth, and prolonged use of nasal packing for nosebleeds — although all of these are rare.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
Symptoms of TSS occur suddenly. Because it's an illness that is caused by a toxin, many of the body's organ systems are affected. The signs and symptoms of TSS include:

high fever (greater than 102° Fahrenheit [38.8° Celsius])
rapid drop in blood pressure (with lightheadedness or fainting)
sunburn-like rash on the entire body
vomiting and diarrhea
severe muscle aches or weakness
bright red coloring of the eyes, throat, and vagina
headache, confusion, disorientation, or seizures
kidney and other organ failure.
The average time before symptoms appear for TSS is 2 to 3 days after an infection with Staphylococcus or Streptococcus, although this can vary depending on the cause of the infection.

Exams and Tests
No single test can diagnose toxic shock syndrome.
The diagnosis is based on several criteria: fever, low blood pressure, a rash that peels after 1-2 weeks, and problems with the function of at least three organs.
In some cases, blood cultures may be positive for growth of S. aureus.

what treatment can be done ?
Any foreign materials, such as tampons, vaginal sponges, or nasal packing, will be removed. Sites of infection (such as a surgical wound) will be drained.

The goal of treatment is to maintain important body functions. This may include:
* Antibiotics for any infection (may be given through an IV)
* Dialysis (if severe kidney problems are present)
* Fluids through a vein (IV)
* Methods to control blood pressure
* Intravenous gamma globulin may help in severe cases

Outlook (Prognosis)
Toxic shock syndrome may be deadly in up to 50% of cases. The condition may return in those that survive.

what are the possible Complications?
* Severe organ dysfunction
o Kidney failure
o Heart failure
o Liver failure
* Shock

When to Contact a Medical Professional
Toxic shock syndrome is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash, fever, and feel ill, particularly during menstruation and tampon use or if you have had recent surgery.

what are the Prevention measures?
Menstrual toxic shock syndrome can be prevented by avoiding the use of highly absorbent tampons. You can reduce your risk by changing tampons more frequently and using tampons only once in a while (not regularly) during menstruation.

 

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