If you’re a woman who has used tampons, you’ve likely been warned repeatedly about toxic shock syndrome (TSS). “It’s that infection from tampons where you die, right?” one mom told us when queried. Yes, sometimes. And… yes, if not treated in time.
There are many misconceptions surrounding TSS, including who can get it and how. Even more critical, it’s often misdiagnosed as a stomach bug or flu. It is important that all men and women, especially parents, know the toxic shock syndrome signs so they are able to receive the appropriate treatment before it is too late.
What’s toxic shock syndrome?
How to treat toxic shock syndrome
With proper and timely medical intervention, the majority of TSS cases can be treated successfully.
When to call a doctor
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms. In addition, the CDC’s clinical criteria for TSS includes fever, rash, low blood pressure, and multisystem organ involvement. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after using tampons or after a surgery or skin injury, contact your doctor immediately.
Treatment
Treatment, according to Healthline.com, includes stabilizing the patient with intravenous (IV) hydration of water, electrolytes, and glucose; antibiotics for 7 to 14 days; medication to stabilize blood pressure; gamma globulin injections to suppress inflammation and boost your body’s immune system; surgical removal of infected deep tissue; removal of any foreign objects such as a tampon or vaginal sponge, and draining pus or blood from the wound to clear any infection.
Prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome
Reduce your risk of contracting TSS by doing the following:
- Remove tampons after 4-8 hours (depending on package instructions)
- Avoid high-absorbency tampons if you don’t need them
- Avoid tampons made of rayon
- Use pads instead of tampons on low-flow days
- Store tampons away from heat and moisture (to avoid bacteria growth)
- Wash hands thoroughly before inserting a tampon
- Clean and bandage all skin wounds as quickly as possible
- Call a doctor if you experience fever, rash, low blood pressure, and multisystem organ involvement.
