Can you die from tss

There are ways to reduce your risk of contracting TSS linked to tampon use. Follow the instructions on the package when it comes to length of usage — usually between four and eight hours.

Also, know what your tampons are made of as certain materials, like rayon, can increase the risk. You can still wear tampons and protect yourself from TSS at the same time. However, if you experience a sudden high fever, chills, vomiting or diarrhea, rash, headaches or seizures, you should seek professional medical help as those are all symptoms of TSS.

When strep causes toxic shock syndrome, it's usually because the bacteria got into areas of injured skin, such as cuts and scrapes , surgical wounds, and even chickenpox blisters. Originally, toxic shock syndrome was linked to the use of super-absorbent tampons. Research led to better tampons and better habits for using them, such as changing them often. The number of TSS cases dropped dramatically.

Today about half of all TSS cases are related to menstruation. Two birth control methods, the contraceptive sponge and the diaphragm , have been linked to TSS. If doctors think someone has toxic shock syndrome, they'll start intravenous IV fluids and antibiotics as soon as possible, even before they're sure the person has TSS.

To confirm a diagnosis, doctors take a sample from the likely site of the infection, such as the skin, nose, or vagina, to check for the bacteria. They also may take and test a blood sample. Other blood tests can help doctors:. Besides giving antibiotics and IV fluids, as needed doctors will:.

There, doctors can watch their blood pressure and breathing and check for signs of other problems, such as organ damage. Washing hands well and often can help prevent the bacteria that cause toxic shock syndrome from spreading. Do not handle the tampon more than you need to. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting the tampon. Be gentle when inserting and removing tampons.

Avoid applicator tampons, as the applicator may scrape the vaginal walls. Use pads sanitary napkins instead of tampons overnight. Maintain personal hygiene during your period. Do not wear tampons when you do not have your period. Consider using pads or panty liners during the last day or so of your period when your flow is light.

Use a lubricating jelly when inserting tampons in the last day or so of your period when your flow is light. There are no clinical trials supporting the use of menstrual cups to reduce the risk of TSS. Where to get help In an emergency, always call an ambulance by dialling triple zero Your doctor Emergency department of your nearest hospital Things to remember Toxic shock syndrome TSS is a rare and potentially life-threatening illness that is thought to be caused by infection with certain types of bacteria.

Women who have their period are menstruating are most at risk of getting TSS, as it is thought to be associated with tampon use. Suggestions for reducing the risk of TSS include changing tampons regularly and using pads instead of tampons overnight. More information here. Give feedback about this page. Was this page helpful? Yes No. View all infections.

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