Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS, is a rare but deadly infection that occurs when a certain type of bacteria—Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Clostridium sordellii—releases toxins into one’s blood.
Staphylococcus aureus bacteria often exist on one’s body without being harmful, but they can also cause infections in people with serious burns or who are in a post-surgical phase. On the other hand, Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria are infectious too, but they cause less serious infections such as strep throat and impetigo. As for Clostridium sordellii, it is a harmless bacteria that can be found in the vaginal area.
Toxic Shock Syndrome often happens because of an infected cut or burn or using the same tampon for a long period of time. Here are five facts to know about this syndrome.
Causes of Toxic Shock Syndrome
Although it is mostly known that Toxic Shock Syndrome often happens because of the use of super-absorbent tampons, it can also occur due to the use of a contraceptive sponge, diaphragm, or menstrual cups. It is important to keep track of what you are using and develop healthy habits while using feminine hygiene. TSS can also happen due to a skin infection, unattended surgical cuts, childbirth, abortion, or any other gynecological procedure, along with the unclean gauze used to stop bleeding. Basically, if these bacteria find a way into your body, it can potentially be fatal.
Symptoms Of The Infection
Toxic Shock Syndrome’s symptoms can be mistaken for the flu at first because it shares a lot of common symptoms. However, one has to be extremely careful and attentive if they are in their period, have a cut or burn of any kind, or are recovering from any surgical procedures. TSS’s symptoms start with a high fever, body chills and aches, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and a sore throat. These symptoms can become worse, and potentially deadly, very quickly if not treated immediately. They might include low blood pressure, a rash on one’s palms and bottoms of the feet, and seizures.
Treatment of TSS
Toxic Shock Syndrome is considered a medical emergency, so it has to be treated immediately. Doctors often use antibiotics and intravenous (IV) fluids as a start. In order to confirm the diagnosis, they take a sample from the site of the infection (skin, nose, or vagina). They can also take blood samples and do some blood tests to check if the organs are still functioning (kidney, liver) and pinpoint the reason behind having a TSS.
Effects of Toxic Shock Syndrome
If not treated immediately, Toxic Shock Syndrome can cause serious damage to one’s body, such as kidney failure, liver failure, excessive bleeding, tissue death, or even having fingers, toes, or limbs amputated. Plus, it can be deadly.
Prevention of TSS
Toxic Shock Syndrome can be prevented by keeping any burns, cuts, or skin injuries clean and regularly checked, being mindful while using tampons by changing them every 4–8 hours and avoiding the extra absorbent ones, checking with the doctor immediately in case of any of the above symptoms, and not taking them lightly.
Toxic Shock Syndrome is such a serious condition that many people remain unaware of its fatality, so it is important to raise awareness of its symptoms, causes, and treatments so one can be alerted in case of suddenly dealing with it.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
For More Great Content
Total Apex is an all-encompassing content producer. We provide heavily detailed articles every day on entertainment, gaming, sports, and so much more! Check out all our great sports content at Total Apex Sports. Check us out on X @TotalApexEandG and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports.
