Toxic shock syndrome is the rather startling name for a rare and life-threatening complication caused by certain types of bacterial infections. It has been most often associated with the use of super-absorbent tampons, and thankfully incidents of toxic shock syndrome have declined since manufacturers have pulled certain of these off the market.

Although menstruating women have historically comprised the largest percentage of victims of toxic shock syndrome (about 50 percent), men, children and post-menopausal women are at risk as well. Risk factors include:

·         Having cuts or burns on your skin

·         Having had recent surgery

·         Using contraceptive sponges, diaphragms or super-absorbent tampons

·         Having a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox

See your doctor as soon as possible if you are at risk and experience any of these symptoms:

·         A sudden high fever

·         Low blood pressure (hypotension)

·         Vomiting or diarrhea

·         A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles

·         Confusion

·         Muscle aches

·         Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat

·         Seizures

·         Headaches

Even though the cause for toxic shock syndrome is clearly defined (Bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, but possibly group A streptococcus), there is still no one test for toxic shock syndrome. Your doctor will likely take both blood and urine samples, as well as swabs of your throat, vagina and cervix. Depending upon how long you have been experiencing symptoms, and because toxic shock syndrome can affect multiple organs, your doctor may prescribe X-rays, computer tomography scans, and even a lumbar puncture.

If you are diagnosed with toxic shock syndrome, you most certainly will be hospitalized, where you will be treated with antibiotics while your doctor zeros in on the source of infection. Other symptoms, such as low blood pressure and dehydration, can also be addressed during your stay. You may also require dialysis if the toxins produced by the staph or strep bacteria and accompanying low blood pressure result in kidney failure.