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    • Periods
      • Early Menstruation
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      • Tampons
      • Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
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    Title: Preventing Teenagers: Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) & Tampon Use

    Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) occurs when a certain kind of bacteria grown and produces toxins that poison your body. Although rare, it can kill you if you do not get treatment

    Anyone can get TSS, with women under the age of 19 are most susceptible. Also, using super absorbency tampons, and leaving the tampon in for more than eight hours increase your risk.

    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

    How to Reduce the Risk of TSS

    • Alternate tampon use with pads
    • Use tampons with the minimum needed absorbency to control your flow
    • Change your tampon as directed

    What to Do If You Suspect TSS

    • Remove your tampon immediately to prevent symptoms from worsening
    • Seek medical attention immediately


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    Worried girl
    By Hien Do, high school writer
    Reviewed by Nancy Brown, Ph.D.


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