Understanding Toxic Shock Syndrome

By Anayah Chowdhury

What is TSS?

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare infection that affects about 1 in 100,000 people in the United States (1). TSS is a rare but serious condition caused by certain strains of bacteria that release toxins into the bloodstream. These toxins can affect vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. While TSS is often linked to tampon use during menstruation, it can affect people of any age. The risk of developing TSS is higher if you have skin wounds, surgical incisions, nasal packing, scrapes, burns, or other types of skin injuries (2). Imagine a condition that can strike suddenly, turning something as routine as putting a tampon in into a life-threatening emergency. While rare, toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a serious risk that every woman should be aware of. Knowing how to protect yourself during your period can make all the difference.

How Does TSS Occur?

TSS occurs when bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, produce toxins that enter the bloodstream. During menstruation, the risk increases if tampons are left in for too long, especially if they are high-absorbency tampons. The tampon can create an environment where bacteria can multiply, leading to the release of these harmful toxins (3).

Symptoms of TSS

TSS can develop rapidly, so it's important to recognize the symptoms early. Some common signs according to John Hopkins Medicine (4) include:

• Suddenly high fever over 102°F (38.9°C)

• Chills

• Headache

• A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on the palms and soles

• Fatigue

• Confusion

• Redness in the eyes, mouth, and throat

• Seizures

• Bruising due to low platelet count

  
  

How women can protect themselves during menstruation

While TSS is rare, taking precautions during menstruation can significantly reduce your risk. Here are some key tips to protect yourself (5):

1. Use the Right Absorbency: Choose the lowest absorbency tampon that meets your needs. Avoid super-absorbent tampons unless absolutely necessary.

2. Change Tampons Regularly: Change your tampon at least every 4 hours. Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours.

3. Alternate with Pads: Consider alternating between tampons and pads, especially at night, to reduce the continuous use of tampons.

4. Avoid Overnight Tampon Use: It's safer to use a pad while sleeping to avoid leaving a tampon in for an extended period.

5. Follow Proper Hygiene: Wash your hands before and after inserting or removing a tampon to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria.

6. Consider Menstrual Cups or Pads: If you're concerned about TSS, consider using a menstrual cup or pads as an alternative to tampons. Menstrual cups, when used properly, are less likely to cause TSS.

7. Be Aware of Symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of TSS and act quickly if you suspect you may have it. Early intervention is crucial.

8. Avoid Tampons if You've Had TSS Before: If you've previously had TSS, it's recommended to avoid using tampons altogether, as you may be at higher risk of recurrence.

Works Cited

1. “Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 6 Sept. 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15437-toxic-shock-syndrome#:~:text=How%20common%20is%20toxic%20shock.  Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.

2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Toxic Shock Syndrome - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 23 Mar. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/toxic-shock-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355384.  

3. “Toxic Shock Syndrome | Boston Children’s Hospital.” Www.childrenshospital.org, www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/toxic-shock-syndrome. 

4. Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).” John Hopkins Medicine, 2019, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/toxic-shock-syndrome-tss. 

5. “Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) - Better Health Channel.” Www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/toxic-shock-syndrome-tss#reducing-the-risk-of-toxic-shock-syndrome.