Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) though rare is a serious complication brought about by certain types of infections.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include sudden high fever, chills, body aches and other flu-like symptoms.
In the absence of proper treatment, toxic shock syndrome can progress rapidly and complications may include shock, renal failure and sometimes death.
PREVENTION:It is possible to reduce the likelihood of developing toxic shock syndrome by following a few simple steps.
Toxic shock syndrome can recur.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) though rare is a serious complication brought about by certain types of infections. Although the condition is frequently the result of toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, it can sometimes be caused by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria.
India Today spoke with Dr Shaarang Sachdev, Senior Consultant & Head – Emergency, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi to get more insights.
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SYMPTOMS AND RISK FACTORS:
TSS caused by Streptococci can affect people of any age and is associated with skin wounds, surgical operations, and the use of tampons and other devices such as menstrual cups, contraceptive sponges, or diaphragms. Those who have recently had strep throat, scarlet fever, impetigo, or other diseases caused by group A strep are susceptible to toxic shock syndrome due to Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as S. pyogenes or group A strep.
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include sudden high fever, chills, body aches and other flu-like symptoms. This can be coupled with nausea or vomiting, watery diarrhoea, a rash resembling a bad sunburn or red dots on your skin. In addition, a person can experience dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting along with redness in their eyes (conjunctivitis) and throat. Low blood pressure (hypotension), and peeling of the skin on the soles of your feet or palms of your hands are other common symptoms. In the absence of proper treatment, toxic shock syndrome can progress rapidly and complications may include shock, renal failure and sometimes death.
TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT:
The standard treatment for infections with Streptococcus is often with antibiotics administered intravenously (IV). The toxins that have already built up in your body cannot be removed by antibiotics, although they can help limit the development of bacteria. Treatment for TSS may include:
Antibiotics can be used to treat the infection in TSS patients.
Immunoglobulin is a purified form of donated blood that aids in the body's defence against infection.
Oxygen to help the patient with breathing.
Fluids take care of dehydration and also prevent organ damage
Blood pressure-regulating medication.
Dialysis is given to persons who experience renal failure because of TSS
Dead tissue excision surgery. The afflicted region may occasionally need to be amputated.
PREVENTION:
It is possible to reduce the likelihood of developing toxic shock syndrome by following a few simple steps. During your menstrual cycle, use sanitary pads rather than tampons, or utilise pads at night. Switching to pads from tampons every other day or during the thickest part of your menstrual flow may also help lower your risk. Tampon changes should occur every 4 to 8 hours. Tampons may need to be changed more frequently if the flow is heavy. Also, tampons should not be used while you are not menstruating.
In addition, surgical incisions should be kept clean to prevent infection. If you see any unusual heat, redness, or swelling close to the incision, consult your healthcare professional. When using diaphragms, sponges, or caps as vaginal contraceptives, follow the guidelines.
Toxic shock syndrome can recur. People who've had it once can get it again. If you've had serious staph or strep infection or toxic shock syndrome in the past, steer clear of using tampons.
