|
Toxic Shock Syndrome
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome ?
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but
serious illness which can occur in men, women and children. About half the number of cases
reported are associated with using tampons and affect a tiny number of women every year,
only about 1 out of every 1.5 million women who have periods. TSS can occasionally
be fatal.
TSS can be treated successfully providing
it is recognised quickly, and most young people make a full recovery. Younger people may
be more at risk from the bacteria which are believed to cause this rare condition, because
their immune system may not be fully developed.
Symptoms:
Symptoms during your period:
- High fever (over 102F or 39C)
- Rash
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Dizziness or fainting.
Treatment:
You should remove your tampon and consult
your doctor immediately. These symptoms can be early warning signs of TSS, which can
develop very quickly and may seem like flu to begin with.
Don't worry about wasting the doctor's
time and remember to say you have been wearing a tampon. Don't use tampons again without
checking first with your doctor.
By using tampons correctly and following
the advice given below, you will reduce the risk of developing TSS.
Remember:
- Always wash your hands before and after
insertion and removal of a tampon.
- Always remove the used tampon before
inserting a new one.
- Always remember to remove the last tampon
at the end of your period.
- Never use 2 tampons at once.
- A tampon should be changed every 4 - 8
hours.
- Never leave a tampon in for more then 8
hours.
- Tampons should only be used when you have
a period.
- Use the lowest absorbency tampon for your
flow.
- Use a pad or panty-liner from time to time
during your period.
|
