Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is the name given to a bacterial infection that is not common, but very serious. Originally believed to be caused by the use of tampons, it is now recognized as a problem associated with contraceptive sponge and diaphragm birth control methods. Apart from that, other causes of Toxic shock syndrome include wounds, resulting from minor trauma or surgery incisions, which allow the bacteria to enter the body and cause the infection. Amongst the initial symptoms of TSS are sudden high fever, a faint feeling, watery diarrhea, headache and muscle aches.
Types of Toxic Shock Syndrome
There are basically two conditions that result from toxic shock syndrome. The first one is caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and results from excessive use of tampons. It is believed that certain tampons provide a moist, warm area to the bacteria, where they thrive very easily. The second one is called streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) and is caused by streptococcus bacteria. In majority of the cases, STSS appears after invasion of injured skin, such as cuts, scrapes, chickenpox blisters and surgical wounds, by streptococcus bacteria.
Symptoms
The following symptoms are seen in case of Toxic shock syndrome:
- Vomiting
- High fever (102° F or higher)
- Rapid drop in blood pressure
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Watery diarrhea
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
- Sunburn-like rash (within 24 hours)
- Bloodshot eyes
- Redness under the eyelids
- Redness inside the mouth
- Redness inside the vagina
- Broken blood vessels, on the skin
- Confusion or other mental changes
- Decreased urination
- Thirst
- Weak and rapid pulse
- Pale, cool, moist skin
- Rapid breathing
