What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS, is one of those conditions that many of us have heard of it, but not many of us know a lot about. We know it sounds scary and that it's incredibly rare, but TSS is also a serious illness that can sometimes be fatal. The good news is there are many ways to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome and you can find them here.
TSS is believed to be caused by a toxin-producing strain of the bacteria ‘Staphylococcus aureus’ and can occur in both men and women of any age as a result of burns, insect bites or surgery. With around half of all cases occurring in menstruating females, knowing about TSS is especially important for girls and women.
Symptoms
Toxic Shock Syndrome symptoms can develop very quickly and may seem like flu. Look out for a sudden high fever (usually over 39°C), dizziness, fainting, vomiting, diarrhoea, sunburn-like rashes, sore throat, or muscle ache.
Of course, all of these symptoms might not occur at the same time. If you’re experiencing some of them during your period and are feeling worried about TSS, remove your tampon and seek medical advice immediately.
Just so you know, we also provide information about TSS inside every packet of Lil-Lets tampons. We’re always updating this information too, so it's important to read the leaflets regularly.
Fortunately, Toxic Shock Syndrome is treatable and most people recover fully.
How do I reduce the risk of TSS?
Follow these tips to reduce the chances of contracting menstrual Toxic Shock Syndrome:
- Wash your hands thoroughly after inserting a tampon.
- Change your tampon every four to eight hours (or more, if necessary).
- Use the lowest absorbency tampon for your flow.
- Switch to using a pad or liner every now and then during your period.
- Never use two tampons at once.
- Remember to remove your tampon at the end of your period.
- At night, use a fresh tampon before bed and remove it as soon as you wake up.
For more info on Toxic Shock Syndrome, www.tssis.com