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Toxic shock syndromeWomen's health & fitness guideToxic shock syndrome is a very serious bacterial infection though it is not very common, it is an infection that is more commonly associated with the use of tampons during a woman's period but it can also occur through use of the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm methods of contraception. Cleanliness is the major prevention of the disease with hand washing being essential to help prevent the disease. What exactly is toxic shock syndrome? There are two different types of toxic shock syndrome; the first is caused by bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus and this is the form which is most commonly associated with tampon use. Exactly why this happens isn't quite clear but it is thought that high absorbency tampons provide a warm moist home in which the bacteria is known to thrive. An infection that closely resembles this is streptococcal toxic shock syndrome and this is caused by streptococcus bacteria. This type of infection usually occurs when the bacteria known as streptococcus develops in wounds when injury occurs. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome If the infection is due to use of improper hygiene from the use of tampons then the symptoms will usually show first as with vomiting and a very high fever which is usually over 102 degrees Fahrenheit. The women will normally feel faint or light headed and will develop a headache, sore throat and have aching muscles. Within 24 hours a rash which is very similar to sunburn will develop over the body and the eyes will become bloodshot. The infection will then begin to show an unusual redness underneath the eyes, inside the mouth and in the vagina, other symptoms that may show are fatigue, weakness, thirst and skin which is cool to the touch and rapid breathing. Prevention of toxic shock syndrome The bacteria which cause the infection can be carried around on the hands and if cleanliness isn't observed during your period this bacteria can be passed onto the tampon when inserting it. If the tampon isn't changed with frequency the bacteria will then thrive and multiply, it is essential that you wash your hands before and after inserting and removing tampons and that you change the tampon every 4 hours. It is wise to alternate the use of tampons with towels throughout your period and if you are only using tampons then go for the lowest absorbency ones. Between your periods it is wise to store the tampons away from direct heat and moisture, they should never be left in the bathroom due to the moisture and heat as this could encourage the bacteria to grow. |
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