Q; What is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

Ask Our Expert About Toxic Shock Syndrome

About Our Expert

Jaan P. Naktin, M.D., is an infectious disease specialist at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

• What is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?
• How do you get TSS?
• Do tampons cause TSS?
• What are the symptoms of TSS?
• How can I protect myself from getting TSS?

Q: What is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

A: Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare infectious disease caused by a bacteria (staphylococcus aureus) commonly found on the skin. It affects about 300 people in the United States each year (about 1 in 100,000 people) and the majority of cases is related to tampon use. Most people (about 85 percent) don’t have to worry about getting TSS, because they have antibodies that protect them from the disease. This means they’ve already been exposed to it and didn’t get sick or had mild symptoms.

Q: How do you get TSS?

A: When the bacteria enters your bloodstream it causes TSS. Women are the most vulnerable to TSS during their periods. During this time bacteria grows in the vaginal area. Tampons also create an environment in which the bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of bacteria getting into the stream. Anyone who doesn’t have the antibodies to fight off the disease can be infected through cuts in the skin or after having the flu, when you’re more vulnerable to infection.

Q: Do tampons cause TSS?

A: No one knows the exact relationship between tampons and TSS, but tampons do make it easier for the bacteria that causes TSS to grow and enter your bloodstream. In 1980 when hundreds of people were infected with TSS and 38 people died, TSS was linked to a specific brand of tampons, which quickly was removed from the market.

Q: What are the symptoms of TSS?

A: TSS first resembles the flu then quickly gets worse. You have a high fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and dizziness. Your eyes, mouth and throat are red, and you can develop a rash resembling sunburn. Then your body may go into a state of shock, in which you are confused, have extremely low blood pressure and a fast heartbeat. If you’ve been infected through a cut in the skin, you may develop large boils. If you or anyone you know has any of these symptoms, call a doctor right away.

Q: How can I protect myself from getting TSS?

A:

• Wash your hands. If you use tampons, wash before and after using them.
• Choose the lowest tampon absorbency for your menstrual flow. If a tampon is irritating or difficult to remove, try a less absorbent one.
• Consider alternating tampons with pads.
• Don’t use tampons between periods.
• Change your tampon every four to six hours.
• Follow tampon insertion directions on the packaging.
• Tell your friends and relatives about TSS.

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