217. Protect Yourself against Toxic Shock Syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a potentially fatal illness caused when certain bacteria release toxins into the blood.
Symptoms are:
If you experience these symptoms, go to a hospital emergency room immediately.
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•Sudden, high fever. Sore throat.
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•Muscle aches. Extreme fatigue and weakness.
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•Abdominal pain. Vomiting. Diarrhea.
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•Flat, red, sunburn-like rash on the trunk of the body that spreads. The skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet peels.
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•Weak, but rapid pulse (over 100 beats per minute).
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•Dizziness. Confusion.
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•Fainting.
To help prevent TSS, follow these precautions:
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•Never use tampons if you’ve had TSS in the past.
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•Use sanitary napkins instead of tampons whenever possible, or alternate tampons with sanitary pads during a menstrual period.
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•Lubricate the tampon applicator with a water-soluble (nongreasy) lubricant like K-Y brand jelly before insertion.
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•Change tampons and sanitary pads every 4 to 6 hours or more often.