Toxic Shock Syndrome - Symptoms & Treatment

Toxic Shock Syndrome is a very serious bacterial infection. A related infection, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, or STSS, is caused by streptococcus bacteria. People having this disease can easily develop low blood pressure, high fever and even rashes. Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, life-threatening bacterial infection that has been most often associated with the use of superabsorbent tampons and occasionally with the use of contraceptive sponges. Toxic shock syndrome is an illness which is caused by the use of toxins which mixes with the blood.

Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome from staphylococcus starts suddenly with :

• High fever (greater than 102 degrees Fahrenheit [38.8 degrees Celsius])
• Rapid drop in blood pressure (with lightheadedness or fainting)
• Sunburn-like rash on the entire body
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Severe muscle aches.
• Headache, confusion, and disorientation.
• Kidney and other organ failure.
• Nausea and vomiting
• Cough
• Low blood pressure

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:

• Providing a favorable environment for the growth of S. aureus.

Treatment of Toxic Shock Syndrome

Treatment for Toxic Shock Syndrome is necessary or person is also admitted to ICU when he has breathing problems. Treatment for strep or staph TSS is done in the following ways:-

• Antibiotics are given to the person so that bacteria are killed.
• Source of the infection like contraceptive sponge, tampon etc are removed
• If the complications are developed during low blood pressure, shock or illness they should also be treated.
• Remove any tampons from the patient's body immediately.

Prevention tips

• 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.