Toxic Shock Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Toxic Shock Syndrome ?

Toxic shock syndrome is an uncommon but severe acute illness with fever, widespread red rash accompanied by involvement of other body organs. Toxic shock syndrome is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.

Toxic shock syndrome featured in general public news in the early 1980s when an epidemic occurred. It was linked to the prolonged use of highly absorbent tampons in menstruating women. Since then manufacturers have made changes to tampon production and the number of cases of tampon-induced toxic shock syndrome has dropped significantly. Other causes for toxic shock syndrome include the use of contraceptive diaphragms and vaginal sponges (by women), as well as wound infections.

Causes of Toxic Shock Syndrome

The toxins Characterised by bacteria are the cause of TSS. As these toxins are released in the blood cells and weaken the immune system. TSS is caused by the bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus ) and is linked with the use of tampons they may contribute to development of TSS by:

• Introducing S. aureusinto the vagina during insertion (insertion with fingers instead of the supplied applicator increases the risk)
• Using high-absorbency tampons causes irritation and vaginal dryness, thereby increasing toxin production (occurs especially with rayon tampons)
• Traumatizing the vaginal mucosa during insertion, thus leading to infection
• Providing a favorable environment for the growth of S. aureus.

Signs and Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Common signs and symptoms of Fibromyalgia include:

• A sudden high fever.
• Vomiting or diarrhea.
• A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles. After a week or so, the skin on your hands and feet generally begins to peel.
• Confusion.
• Muscle aches.
• Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat.
• Seizures.
• Headaches.

Diagnosis of Toxic Shock Syndrome

The following tests required to diagnose TSS are:-

• Blood count of red and white blood cells and platelets are tested.
• Cultures of blood and other body fluids and tissues are tested whether the person has staph or strep bacteria in the blood or not.
• The infections like sepsis; typhoid fever etc should be tested to check the infection.

Treatment of Toxic Shock Syndrome

If you develop toxic shock syndrome, you'll likely be hospitalized and need antibiotics. Doctors will try to determine the source of the infection. Along with antibiotics, you'll receive supportive care to treat the signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. If your blood pressure begins to drop (hypotension), you'll need medication to stabilize it and fluids to prevent dehydration. The toxins produced by the staph bacteria may result in kidney failure. If your kidneys fail, you may need dialysis.

Prevention Tips of Toxic Shock Syndrome

The best ways to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome is :

• After childbirth tampons and contraceptives should be avoided during first twelve months.
• If the person is having menstrual TSS, intrauterine device, tampons etc should be avoided.
• If there is severe pain, swelling or redness around the wound the person should seek medical examination immediately.