Toxic Shock Syndrome and Tampons

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a disease that can kill you if you do not get treatment, although it is rare. TSS occurs when a certain kind of bacteria grows and produces toxins that poison your body. Anyone can get this disease, but your risk increases if you use super-absorbency tampons or leave a tampon in for too long. It also seems that women under the age of 19 seem more likely to get TSS.

The symptoms of TSS are sudden and intense. They include:

• A sunburn-like rash, and/or peeling skin


• A high fever


• Severe flu-like symptoms


• Headache or muscle aches


• Stomach cramps


• Sore throat


• Nausea or vomiting


• Diarrhea


• Weakness


• Dizziness, lightheadedness or confusion


• Pale, clammy skin

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