Last Updated:. April Download PDF:. What is Toxic Shock Syndrome? If you think you have TSS, call or go to the nearest emergency department right away. Is it an emergency? If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call or the local emergency number immediately. If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at Thanks to our partners and endorsers:.
This can cause severe damage and illness. TSS from Staphylococcus infections was identified in the late s and early s when highly absorbent tampons were widely used by menstruating women.
Due to changes in how tampons are made, the incidence of tampon-induced TSS has declined. TSS from streptococcus infections is most commonly seen in children and the elderly. Other people at risk include those with diabetes, weak immune system, chronic lung disease, or heart disease.
Symptoms of TSS involve many systems and may look like other infections. While each person may experience symptoms differently, the following are the most common symptoms of staphylococcal TSS:. Ruling out similar illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, among others is critical in diagnosing TSS. Other diagnostic tests may include:.
TSS may start like other infections, but it can quickly progress to a seriously life-threatening disease. If a mild illness quickly becomes severe with whole-body symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Health Home Conditions and Diseases. What causes toxic shock syndrome? The following bacteria commonly cause TSS: Staphylococcus aureus Streptococcus pyogenes Clostridium sordellii TSS from Staphylococcus infections was identified in the late s and early s when highly absorbent tampons were widely used by menstruating women.
It's often associated with tampon use in young women, but it can affect anyone of any age — including men and children. TSS gets worse very quickly and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
But if it's diagnosed and treated early, most people make a full recovery. Sometimes you may also have a wound on your skin where the bacteria got into your body, but it may not look infected. While these symptoms could be due to a different condition, it's important to contact your GP, a local out-of-hours service, or NHS as soon as possible if you have a combination of these symptoms.
Skip to main content. Home Infections. Toxic shock syndrome TSS. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome TSS and risks of tampon use Treatment for toxic shock syndrome Reducing the risk of toxic shock syndrome Where to get help Things to remember.
Toxic shock syndrome TSS is a rare and potentially life-threatening illness that is thought to be caused by infection with certain types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Women who have their period are menstruating are most likely to get TSS, as it is thought to be associated with tampon use.
The underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, but one theory is that the bacteria naturally present in the vagina can over-grow in the presence of a blood-soaked tampon. However, one third of women who get TSS when they have their period are found to have no causative bacteria in their vaginas. TSS can occasionally develop as a complication after surgery or childbirth. A few cases of the syndrome have been reported in men who were also found to have staphylococcal infections of the skin.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome The symptoms of TSS include: fever vomiting diarrhoea a skin rash that looks like sunburn peeling patches of skin on the feet and hands muscular aches headaches a sore throat red eyes confusion a drop in blood pressure joint pains sensitivity to light kidney failure collapse. TSS and risks of tampon use It is the toxin made by the bacteria that causes TSS, rather than the actual presence of the bacteria.
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