Toxic Shock Syndrome was first identified in the 1970s and became a health concern during the 1980s.It has always been associated with females who use extra-absorbent tampons, but anyone can come down with this condition.Vaginally-inserted contraceptives, cuts and scrapes, and even chickenpox can allow the staph or strepbacteria that release toxins into the bloodstream.A quick diagnosis and treatment can be the difference between a full recovery and serious (and on rare occasions, fatal) consequences if you don't take precautions.If you have risk factors and symptoms, you can use an assessment to find out if you need treatment.
Step 1: Look for symptoms of the flu.
Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome can be mistaken for the flu.Listen closely to your body to make sure you don't miss any important signs.Major muscle aches and pains, headaches, vomiting, and other flu-like symptoms can be caused by TSS.If you have an oozing surgical wound or are a menstruating young woman, you should consider your risk of getting the flu.Keep an eye out for other symptoms if it is reasonable to believe that you have TSS.
Step 2: If you see a rash on the hands, feet, or elsewhere, it's likely that you're dealing with TSS.
A sunburn-like rash that appears on the palms and soles of the feet is a telltale sign of TSS.The rash can occur on any part of the body.There may be redness around the eyes, mouth, throat, and vagina.If you have an open wound, look for signs of infections such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
Step 3: The other serious symptoms should be identified.
Symptoms usually appear two to three days after the infection, and are usually mild in nature.They will progress rapidly as the condition gets worse, so watch for them if you have any inkling that you might have it.If you see a rapid drop in blood pressure, it's usually accompanied by dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
Step 4: You should seek immediate medical help if you suspect TSS.
Toxic Shock Syndrome can be highly treatable if caught early.In rare cases, undetected TSS can lead to irreversible organ failures, amputations, and even death.It's a good idea to play it safe.If you have symptoms of TSS or have risk factors for it, like ongoing nosebleeds or extended female contraceptive use, get medical assistance right away.If relevant in your situation, remove the tampon you are using unless otherwise instructed.
Step 5: Prepare for a successful treatment plan.
Hospital stays of several days are not uncommon, despite the fact that TSS can almost always be treated successfully.The frontline treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics.Treatments will be based on the particulars of your case.Oxygen, IV fluids, pain or other medications can be provided.
Step 6: Special precautions should be taken against recurrence.
You are more likely to get it again once you have had it.If you want to avoid a severe recurrence, you need to make lifestyle changes and keep an eye out for symptoms.If you have ever had TSS, you should not use feminine hygiene products.You should look for alternatives to contraceptive devices like sponges or diaphragms.
Step 7: Use condoms with care.
Toxic Shock Syndrome was first identified in women who used extra-absorbent tampons.Increased awareness and product changes have reduced the number of incidents, but they still account for half of all cases.In a small percentage of people, staph can cause a major immune response and cause serious side effects.It is not clear why using extra-absorbent tampons that remain inserted for long periods of time is the greatest risk factor.Some believe that the extended insertion period creates ideal conditions forbacteria growth, while others believe the tampon dries out over time and causes small cuts and abrasions when removed.Regardless of the cause, your best defense against TSS as a menstruating female is to use pads whenever possible; use the least absorbent pons necessary and change them regularly (every four to eight hours); and store them in a cool, dry place.
Step 8: The use of certain types of female contraceptives is recommended.
Female contraceptives that are vaginally inserted must be used with care since they cause less cases of TSS.The length of time in which the device remains inserted seems to be the key factor in the development of TSS.Keep contraceptives inserted for as long as necessary and never for more than 24 hours.Store them in a place that doesn't get warm and humid and wash your hands after handling them.
Step 9: There are other causes that can affect everyone.
Women comprise a significant majority of all cases, but it can affect males and females, young and old alike.Any person can develop a serious case of Toxic Shock Syndrome if the staph or strepbacteria enters the body.When packing for a nosebleed is used for long periods of time, or when a woman gives birth during a case of chickenpox, there is a chance of TSS.Clean, bandage, and re-bandage wounds thoroughly and regularly; change nosebleed packing regularly or seek other methods to reduce or stop the nosebleeds; be vigilant about following health and hygiene recommendations.Young people are more likely to get TSS, and the best theory is that older people have built up greater immunity.If you are a teen or young adult female, be careful.