Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare but potentially fatal condition caused by a massive staphylococcus or streptococcus
infection. Anyone of any age can get TSS; the germs that cause this condition are found everywhere and can contaminate
wounds that come into contact with unclean hands or other surfaces.
The first diagnosed cases of TSS happened in women using high-absorbency tampons; that particular type of tampon has been taken off the market, but tampons still represent a Toxic Shock Syndrome risk. Women should wash hands thoroughly before handling or inserting tampons; store them in a dry place (not the bathroom); use only clean, tightly packaged tampons (not one that has lost its wrapping in a purse, for example); use the lowest absorbency possible; alternate between internal and external sanitary protection, such as sanitary pads; and change tampons frequently during the menstrual period.
Toxic shock symptoms include
fever,
low blood pressure, a
sunburn-like rash,
vomiting and
diarrhea; anyone with such symptoms should consult a doctor immediately. If the patient is a woman wearing a tampon, diaphragm, or
birth control sponge, those items should be removed immediately. Toxic Shock Syndrome can often be treated successfully with antibiotics, but shock can cause permanent organ damage.