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Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

A rare, life-threatening condition caused by harmful toxins releasing bacteria into the body is known as Toxic shock syndrome (TSS). 

It’s often associated with tampon usage in younger women, but it can emerge in anyone of any age, both men and children can experience. This condition quickly worsens and becomes fatal if left untreated.

Symptoms

The toxic shock syndrome (TSS) symptoms start abruptly and worsen quickly.

They include:

If you go through the: • Throbbing or cramping pain in one of the legs, usually in the calf or thigh • Swelling in one leg • Warm underskin around the painful area • Darkened or red around the painful area • Swollen veins that are sore or hard when you touch them Seek for an emergency. If you; • Experience shortness of breath • your heart is pumping at an irregular pace These signs could indicate a pulmonary embolism or another serious condition.

Occasionally you may also have a wound on your dermis through which the bacteria might have gotten into your body, but it may not look infected. 

Causes of toxic shock syndrome

Staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria causes Toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

These bacteria typically dwell on the dermis layer of the skin without exhibiting harm. Still, if they enter the next layer of the body, they tend to release toxins that cause damage to the tissues and result in the malfunctioning of the organs. 

Things that increase your risk of getting TSS to include the following:

  • Tampons – especially if you leave them in for more extended period than recommended
  • Female barricade contraceptives, such as a contraceptive diaphragm or cap
  • A problem in your skin, like a cut, boil, burn, insect bite, or wound after surgery
  • Childbirth- Delivering a baby
  • Operating nasal packing to treat a nosebleed
  • A staphylococcal infection or streptococcal infection, such as a throat infection or cellulitis

Toxic shock syndrome is not contagious. 

Treatments

You’ll get admitted to the hospital in an intensive care unit.

General treatment may involve:

  • Antibiotics, In some instances, are purified antibodies; taken out of donated blood, known as pooled immunoglobulin, which helps in relieving the infection
  • Oxygen to assist with your breathing
  • Liquids to prevent dehydration and organ impairment
  • Medication to help control blood pressure
  • Dialysis
  • In extreme cases, you may need surgery to remove dead tissue.

Most people will feel much better on their own within a few days of undergoing these treatments, but it may take several weeks before you can leave the hospital.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022