Toxic Shock Syndrome, an infection caused by Gram-positive bacteria, begins with mild symptoms, but can worsen, leading to death.
Toxic Shock Syndrome is a rare disease caused by an infection of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. In short, bacteria produce toxins that interact with the immune system. As a result, it causes some symptoms such as fever and skin rashes, which can worsen, causing acute kidney failure and even death.
Furthermore, the disease was first described in 1978, and contrary to what many believe, it does not only affect women, but men as well. However, it usually occurs in women who use tampons for a long time. On the other hand, people with some type of cut, wound or insect bite that is infected or poorly treated can also develop the syndrome.
Likewise, people with an infection caused by the same bacteria. Such as throat infection, impetigo, skin infections, osteomyelitis, arthritis, burns, skin injuries, respiratory infections, postpartum or after surgical procedures, for example. In addition, the syndrome can also result from diaphragm use, mastitis, sinusitis, infectious cellulitis, etc. Anyway, whatever the case, treatment must be carried out as quickly as possible to avoid complications.
Finally, in recent years, tampons have undergone numerous changes in their composition. In this way, the number of occurrences of the syndrome linked to its use has greatly decreased. But there is still a risk, so you need to take certain precautions when using it. For example, do not use a tampon for more than 8 hours, change it every 2 or 4 hours, depending on the intensity of the flow, use the appropriate size and wash your hands thoroughly.
Therefore, pay attention to the 10 symptoms that may indicate that you are suffering from the disease. And if you have any of them, seek medical advice.
Toxic Shock Syndrome: Symptoms
We have prepared a list of the main symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome so that you can be aware and take good care of your health. Check out:
1- High fever
One of the first symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome is a high fever, measuring between 39 and 40.5º C. Furthermore, the fever remains high. Therefore, it causes discomfort and intense pain in the infected area.
2- Generalized muscle pain
Another symptom of Toxic Shock Syndrome is generalized muscle pain. In more serious cases, it can even compromise the muscles.
3- Toxic Shock Syndrome: Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
Furthermore, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are some of the most common symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome.
4- Low blood pressure
A very common symptom caused by the syndrome is hypotension or low blood pressure, which can also cause discomfort and dizziness.
5- Changes in the skin
Skin changes such as redness and rashes, for example, can also be symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Likewise, peeling on the feet and hands may begin between 3 and 7 days after infection.
6- Toxic Shock Syndrome: Difficulty breathing
In short, when the infection caused by Toxic Shock Syndrome worsens, it can affect the respiratory system, causing shortness of breath and cyanosis. Which is a medical condition that affects people when there is poor blood oxygenation. In some cases, the doctor may even administer oxygen to aid breathing.
7- Kidney, liver and heart failure
Furthermore, another very common serious symptom is acute kidney, liver or heart failure, increasing liver enzymes and decreasing the number of platelets. Ultimately, these symptoms can progress to syncope, shock and death in just 48 hours.
8- Headache, mental confusion and dizziness
They are also common symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Because the infection alters blood pressure, it is common for patients to experience headaches, mental confusion and dizziness.
9- Toxic Shock Syndrome: Seizures
In short, seizures can occur when the infection affects the outer layer of the brain.
10- Redness in the eyes, mouth and throat
Finally, among the symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome, the patient may experience redness in the eyes, mouth and throat, as a result of the infection.
Toxic Shock Syndrome: Treatment
In short, it is very important that treatment is carried out as quickly as possible to avoid complications that can lead to death. Thus, treatment consists of administering intravenous antibiotics and medications to normalize blood pressure and body fluids, to prevent dehydration and failure of the kidneys, liver or heart.
Furthermore, immunoglobulin injections are also applied, which serve to suppress the inflammatory process, in addition to strengthening the immune system to combat the infection caused by Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Finally, in cases of respiratory failure, the doctor may administer oxygen to aid respiratory function. In addition, it can also drain and remove regions infected by bacteria.
Therefore, if you use tampons and start to experience any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.
So, if you liked this article, find out more about the subject at: Can you sleep with a tampon: tips and necessary care.
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