A series of tests and studies determined that the victims suffered from acute staph infections. The cause was believed to be tampon use in female patients, a bit of news that caused worldwide attention and panic because of their widespread use.
Eventually, it was determined that it wasn’t tampon use of that caused the problem – it was misusing them. The women who fell victim to what was now called toxic shock syndrome had all used super-absorbent tampons and left them in overnight. Upon removal, the tampons, often dry or caked with blood, had torn small openings in the vaginal walls. This allowed opportunistic staph germs present in those regions to enter the bloodstream, wreaking havoc in internal organs and the bloodstream.
It was later determined that toxic shock syndrome was not just a women’s problem. Cuts and wounds on the arm or other, more sensitive areas could cause problems for men and boys, too. Staph germs commonly are found in the mucous membranes of the body and wait for the chance to enter through wounds, cuts or abrasions. Once in the bloodstream, their toxic effects can be deadly and sometimes fatal.
The discovery of toxic shock syndrome symptoms had been noted as long ago as the 1920s, although the formal recognition of the syndrome only came in the 1970s, thanks to the uproar over its connection with tampons.
Today, medical professionals recognize toxic shock syndrome as something that can be acquired not only through tampons, but also through contraceptive devices and sponges, as well as injuries to the skin or mucous membranes that allow germs to enter. Nasal plastic surgery in particular may make patients more vulnerable.
Fortunately, the number of cases has decreased drastically but recently has come under renewed strength because warnings of tampon absorbency are not as prominent on their packaging. After the 1970s outbreak, the Food and Drug Administration issued a mandate that all tampon manufacturers had to rate the absorbency of their products on the packages. Some manufacturers have stopped doing so, which may account for the slight rise in cases of toxic shock syndrome.
Signs of TSS
Because symptoms of toxic shock syndrome resemble the common cold or flu, victims sometimes hesitate to seek immediate medical attention, treating the issue with over-the-counter medications at home in the hope that it’s a mild illness. However, toxic shock syndrome symptoms are progressive, and the patient usually arrives at a hospital or doctor’s office in bad shape. Medical professionals regard toxic shock syndrome as a medical emergency because it can affect major organs in its final stages and lead to death within days if not promptly treated.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include chills, aching muscles, high fever, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, fainting and seizures. When it reaches the final stages, hallucinations may occur, and conditions caused by failing internal organs may manifest.
TSS Treatment
Medical professionals usually begin treating toxic shock syndrome treatments by administering intravenous fluids and antibiotics. A standard medical exam, including measuring blood pressure and collecting a blood sample, is necessary.
Sometimes, a small sample will be taken from the point of infection to determine the presence of toxic shock staph. During these procedures, any contraceptive devices, such as sponges, will be removed.
Because toxic shock syndrome is a potentially fatal medical emergency, most patients who are diagnosed with the disease will be admitted to the hospital to monitor their condition, and in many cases, they will be housed in the intensive care unit, where round-the-clock nurses will watch for breathing issues and constantly check vital signs. Hospital stays of several days are not unusual in these cases because of the potential that vital organs may be infected. The good news is that antibiotics are usually effective in containing and gradually curing the disease. The bad news is that about one-third of patients who get one episode of it can reacquire the syndrome, whether through continued bad practices or simply bad luck.
Seven Ways to Avoid TSS
Here are some suggestions on things you can do to lessen your chances of acquiring toxic shock syndrome:
1) Because staph germs are present in human mucous membranes, the best defense against toxic shock syndrome is avoiding cuts, tears and abrasions in sensitive areas. The membrane remains the body's best line of defense against opportunistic staph germs.
2) Try to avoid using superabsorbent tampons. Look for a low-absorbency rating on the label.
3) Use sanitary napkins and regularly change them.
4) Use a combination of sanitary napkins and pantyliners, also with frequent changes.
5) Treat minor skin wounds immediately with antibiotic cream and bandages. Closely monitor the wound for any change or infections.
6) Wash your hands, especially before and after inserting a tampon and going to the restroom.
7) Closely monitor how difficult it is to remove your tampon and change it every four to six hours. No more than one at a time should be used.
Following these directions will help you avoid the most common sources of toxic shock syndrome. But keep in mind that the disease is rare. If you use common sense and carefully monitor sanitary issues, you should not have any problems related to this syndrome.