What is toxic shock syndrome?
The following information is from the Mayo Clinic webiste, gathered in March, 2023:
Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. Often toxic shock syndrome results from toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, but the condition may also be caused by toxins produced by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria.
Toxic shock syndrome can affect anyone, including men, children and postmenopausal women. Risk factors for toxic shock syndrome include skin wounds, surgery, and the use of tampons and other devices, such as menstrual cups, contraceptive sponges or diaphragms.
Symptoms:
Possible signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include:
A sudden high fever
Low blood pressure
Vomiting or diarrhea
A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles
Confusion
Muscle aches
Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat
Seizures
Headaches
When to see a doctor:
Call your doctor immediately if you have signs or symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. This is especially important if you've recently used tampons or if you have a skin or wound infection.
Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. Often toxic shock syndrome results from toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, but the condition may also be caused by toxins produced by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria.
Toxic shock syndrome can affect anyone, including men, children and postmenopausal women. Risk factors for toxic shock syndrome include skin wounds, surgery, and the use of tampons and other devices, such as menstrual cups, contraceptive sponges or diaphragms.
Symptoms:
Possible signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include:
A sudden high fever
Low blood pressure
Vomiting or diarrhea
A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles
Confusion
Muscle aches
Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat
Seizures
Headaches
When to see a doctor:
Call your doctor immediately if you have signs or symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. This is especially important if you've recently used tampons or if you have a skin or wound infection.