Should I be worried about toxic shock syndrome?

It can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Clostridium sordellii. Early symptoms are similar to other infections but can progress quickly to become life-threatening. TSS can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
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What are the chances of getting toxic shock syndrome?

In the U.S., TSS is estimated to affect 3-6 people per 100,000 per year,” said Erin Clark, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist with University of Utah Health. “The National Organization for Rare Disorders estimates that TSS related to tampon use occurs in about 1 in 100,000 menstruating women.”
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What does the beginning of toxic shock feel like?

A sudden high fever. Low blood pressure. Vomiting or diarrhea. A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles.
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How long does it take to realize you have toxic shock syndrome?

Common signs and symptoms include fever, muscle aches, vomiting and diarrhea, and a sunburn- like rash that later peels. Hypotension (low blood pressure), shock, multi-organ failure, and death can occur. How soon after exposure do symptoms appear? TSS can develop within 12 hours in some cases.
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Can you have a mild case of toxic shock?

Many people with toxic shock syndrome experience a two- to three-day period of mild symptoms before they develop the disease. These mild symptoms may include low-grade fever, muscle aches, chills, and malaise (a feeling of general discomfort, uneasiness, or ill health).
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Toxic Shock Syndrome: Way Beyond Tampons



What happens if I left a tampon in for a week?

A tampon that's overstayed its welcome isn't a pleasant thing to encounter, but it won't necessarily cause any health issues. The biggest risk is vaginitis, explains Dr. Nathan. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina, and it can stem from a variety of causes—including the bacteria that glom onto the tampon.
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How do you know for sure if you have toxic shock syndrome?

The symptoms of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) start suddenly and get worse quickly. They include: a high temperature. flu-like symptoms, such as a headache, feeling cold, feeling tired or exhausted, an aching body, a sore throat and a cough.
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How do I know if I have toxic shock syndrome?

What are the symptoms of toxic shock syndrome?
  • Fever higher than 102°F (38.9°C)
  • Chills.
  • Feeling unwell.
  • Headache.
  • Fatigue.
  • Rash that is red and flat and that covers most of the areas of the body.
  • Shedding of the skin in large sheets, especially over the palms and soles, seen one to two weeks after the onset of symptoms.
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What do I do if I think I have toxic shock syndrome?

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome come on suddenly. Call your doctor right away if you get a sudden high fever, feel faint, or have any other signs of TSS.
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Can you get TSS from wearing a tampon for 6 hours?

There isn't a set time for when symptoms of TSS start after using a tampon. However, tampons should be removed from your vagina after eight hours to lower your risk of TSS. This doesn't mean you will get TSS if a tampon is left in your vagina longer than eight hours.
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Will I get TSS If I leave a tampon in for 24 hours?

Leaving a tampon in for longer than 8-12 hours, can increase risk of infection or possibly TSS, according to Jessica Shepherd, a gynecologist.
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Can you get toxic shock syndrome for leaving a tampon in for 8 hours?

Tampon manufacturers advise that a tampon should not be left in for more than 8 hours. Occasionally, a rare but life-threatening bacterial infection called toxic shock syndrome has been linked to women using tampons.
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What is the survival rate of toxic shock syndrome?

Despite aggressive treatment, the mortality rate for STSS ranges from 30% to 70%. Mortality from STSS is substantially lower in children than adults. Known complications of shock and organ failure can occur, including tissue necrosis and loss of extremities.
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What age group is most at risk for toxic shock syndrome?

Staphylococcal TSS is common in people aged 15-35 years. More than 90% of cases in women occur in those aged 15-19 years. Streptococcal TSS is seen in all age groups; however, most cases occur in people aged 20-50 years. Staphylococcal TSS is more common in females during menstruation.
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What to do if you forgot to remove tampon?

A lost tampon is not usually an emergency, but it should be taken care of as quickly as possible. If you feel fine, but suspect a lost tampon and can't remove it yourself, call your OB-GYN doctor's office first. Often they will see you right away or they'll direct you to an urgent care center.
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Is 10 hours too long for a tampon?

You should only use a tampon for up to 8 hours. So, if you're asking can you sleep with a tampon in, the short answer is yes. Your tampon doesn't know if it's day or night and will work the same while you sleep, just be sure to only use a tampon for up to 8 hours.
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What happens if I leave a tampon in for 10 hours?

The instructions on your tampon box are clear: You should never keep the same tampon in for longer than eight hours. If you leave it in longer than that, you risk toxic shock syndrome and other health concerns. If you really want to be on the safe side, though, you may want to change your tampon even more often.
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Is it okay to leave a tampon in for 9 hours?

When it comes to changing your tampon, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says it's best to change them after four to eight hours. To stay on the safe side leaving it no longer than six hours will cut your risk of infection.
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Can you get TSS from wearing a tampon for 3 hours?

Here's why: Tampons themselves don't cause TSS. TSS is actually caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus.
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Is it OK to wear a tampon overnight?

Infections include the rare but serious Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). It is safe to sleep with a tampon in as long as it's not for more than eight hours. So, if you can keep your night-time snooze to 8 hours or under, then you can wear a tampon overnight.
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Why tampons are better than pads?

Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. They're also less visible under clothing. Some women also prefer tampons because they're easier to carry and you don't feel them the same way you do pads.
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Is it better to wear a tampon or pad to bed?

Most products warn that you can wear a tampon for up to 4-8 hrs. However, if you typically sleep for longer than 8 hrs., you should wear a pad instead. The reason for this is although rare, TSS, or toxic shock syndrome, is a health concern.
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