Toxic shock syndrome & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is toxic shock syndrome?

Toxic shock syndrome is a rare condition in which blood poisoning is dangerous due to bacterial toxins. The cause of this syndrome is often the poison of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, but it can also be group A streptococcus bacteria.

This disease is related to the use of tampons / pads during the menstrual cycle. On the other hand, because many tampon manufacturers have withdrawn their products from the market, the level of toxic shock syndrome in menstruating women has dropped dramatically.

How common is toxic shock syndrome?

Both men and women can suffer from toxic shock syndrome due to injury or infection of the skin, lungs, throat or bones. Women are more at risk of becoming infected during menstruation. You can limit this disease by reducing risk factors. Consult a doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome?

Symptoms due to Staphylococcus aureus include sudden fever (usually up to 39 ° C), chills, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, tachycardia, sunburn-like rash, severe muscle weakness, headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome due to streptococcus bacteria also include shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, and a fast heartbeat. Wound infections may redden, swell, and interfere with kidney and liver function.

Some of the other symptoms or signs may not be listed above. If you feel anxious about these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

When should I see a doctor?

It is important to remember that this syndrome can be life threatening due to blood poisoning. Contact your doctor if:

• There are symptoms of toxic shock syndrome that develop very quickly and can be deadly if you don't get treatment as soon as possible
• Has a v-shaped infected wound
• Fever or rash, especially during menstruation, use of tampons, or recently had surgery

Cause

What causes toxic shock syndrome?

The cause is the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This syndrome is associated with the use of tampons, contraceptive sponges, as well as methods of contraception with a diaphragm.

The second form is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria after they enter the body through the skin that is injured due to surgery or minor injuries such as scratches, friction, ulcers, chicken pox, and so on.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for toxic shock syndrome?

There are many factors that increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome, namely:

• Scratches or burns
• Latest operation
• Using a sponge, diaphragm, or absorbent tampon
• Viral infections, such as flu or chickenpox

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for toxic shock syndrome?

Early diagnosis and hospitalization are essential. These complications often include peeling of skin on the hands and feet, hair loss and loose nails, kidney failure, congenital heart failure, and respiratory failure.

Doctors may give intravenous fluids and antibiotics to patients in hospital. Respiratory problems may require oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation. Kidney washing machines can be useful for kidney failure.

Once the symptoms are under control and the initial danger has been resolved, the patient can get care at home, but may still need antibiotics. Rest along with returning to daily activities slowly is also very important. Drink plenty of water and a balanced and nutritious diet.

What are the usual tests for toxic shock syndrome?

The doctor will diagnose the disease based on history, symptoms, physical examination and blood tests. However, no single test is able to diagnose the total syndrome. You will need to provide blood and urine samples to find infections. It is possible to collect vaginal, cervical, and throat samples for analysis.

Because toxic shock syndrome can affect various organs of the body, the doctor will order other tests, such as a CT scan, taking fluid from the waist or X-ray of the breast to find out how far the disease has spread.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat toxic shock syndrome?

The following lifestyle and home remedies may help treat toxic shock syndrome:

• Change tampons / pads as often as possible
• Take the right dose of antibiotics
• Wash your hands well before inserting the tampon. Bacteria are found in the skin, especially the hands
• Remember that toxic shock syndrome can recur. An infected patient may be exposed again another day

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.