Tampon disease, also known as toxic shock syndrome (TSS), is a serious condition that can occur in women who use tampons during their periods. Although tampon disease is thankfully rare, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures to minimize risk. Read all about what you need to know about toxic shock syndrome symptoms and more here!
What is toxic shock syndrome?
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus, that produce toxins that can damage the body. When a tampon remains in the vagina for too long, these bacteria can multiply and release toxins that enter the bloodstream. This can lead to various symptoms and, in some cases, more serious complications such as organ failure and, in extreme cases, even death. But fortunately, there are some things you can do to prevent this from happening, we highlight these later in this blog.
What are toxic shock syndrome symptoms?
It is very important to recognize the first symptoms of tampon disease as soon as possible, so you can seek medical attention quickly if needed. The first symptoms may look like the flu, with symptoms such as fever, muscle aches and fatigue. Other symptoms include:
- Skin rash: A characteristic rash similar to a sun allergy can develop and spread throughout the body. This rash often begins on the hands and feet, but can then spread to other parts of the body.
- Dizziness and fainting: Due to the toxins produced by the bacteria, blood pressure can drop, leading to dizziness and even fainting. This is due to the effects of the toxins on the vascular system.
- Nausea and vomiting: The toxins can also affect the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can be severe and contribute to dehydration.
- Diarrhea: Another common symptom of tampon disease is diarrhea. This is caused by the influence of toxins on bowel function, leading to increased bowel movements.
If you experience fever, rash, dizziness or other symptoms while using a tampon, remove it immediately and consult a doctor.
Treatment of toxic shock syndrome
Treatment of toxic shock syndrome usually includes removal of the tampon and administration of antibiotics to control the infection. Severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and supportive care, such as fluid administration. There are also a number of things you can do preventively to avoid tampon disease:
- Use menstrual cups or sponge tampons as an alternative to tampons to prevent bacterial growth.
- Always wash your hands before and after inserting a menstrual cup or sponge tampon.
- Always follow the instructions on the packaging of menstrual products carefully!
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