Information From Your Health Care Provider

TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME

Basic information

description

Toxic shock syndrome is a rare form of blood poisoning caused by poisons (toxins) released by bacteria. Menstrual toxic shock involves the female reproductive and respiratory systems. Nonmenstrual toxic shock can affect all ages (including children) and both sexes.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Sudden, high fever in a previously healthy person.
Chills.
Vomiting and watery diarrhea.
Rash that resembles sunburn.
Low blood pressure.
Excessive thirst.
Rapid pulse.
Feeling of impending doom.
Mental changes, such as confusion.
Extreme fatigue and weakness.
Headache.
Sore throat.

causes

Bacteria, usually staphylococcal (staph) or streptococcal (strep) that most commonly grow on the skin and mucous membranes. The bacteria produce toxins that enter the bloodstream, causing an immune reaction in some people.

risk increases with

Current staph or strep infection.
Tampon use (more so if left in for a long time).
Contraceptives such as a diaphragm or sponge.
Childbirth.
Surgery (especially nasal surgery).
Foreign body, wound packing, or other packing such as stopping nosebleeds.
Menstruation.
Sinus infection, especially in children.
Burns, boils, or insect bites.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

There are no specific preventive measures.
Avoid tampons or use low-absorbent type. Change tampons frequently, and alternate them at night with sanitary pads.
Follow how-to-use instructions provided with contraceptive diaphragms and sponges.
Wash hands carefully before inserting or removing tampons, diaphragms, sponges, or wound packings.
Keep skin wounds clean. Get medical care for infected wounds.
Pregnant women or new mothers should seek medical care for any possible staph or strep infection.

expected outcomes

Many patients recover with early diagnosis and prompt hospital treatment, but some cases are fatal. Skin of the palms and soles often peels during recovery.

possible complications

Severe shock.
Kidney failure.
Congestive heart failure.
Respiratory distress.
Loss of hair and nails.
Recurrence of toxic shock syndrome.
Death in severe cases.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do a physical exam. Medical tests may include blood and urine studies and other tests to check for complications.
Immediate hospital care is required to give intravenous (IV) fluids, antibiotics, and electrolytes to correct fluid and electrolyte loss and dehydration.
Treatment is provided for kidney or heart problems and mechanical breathing support, if needed.
Tampons, diaphragms, or other foreign bodies are removed at once.

medications

Antibiotics, usually given through a vein (IV), for infection.
Intravenous fluids and electrolytes as needed.

activity

Resume your normal activities as advised by your health care provider.

diet

No special diet after recovery.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. Call immediately! Shock develops rapidly.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
Symptoms recur after recovery.