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MoonDragon's Obgyn Information
TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME (TSS)


"For Informational Use Only"
For more detailed information contact your health care provider
about options that may be available for your specific situation.




BASIC INFORMATION


DESCRIPTION

Toxic Shock Syndrome is a form of blood poisoning caused by poisons (toxins) released by staphylococcal bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus. When the toxins are released, a sudden drop in blood pressure occurs, which can lead to death. Menstrual toxic shock involves the female reproductive system and respiratory system and tends to affect menstruating women who use super absorbent tampons, but cases have been traced to the use of contraceptive sponges, diaphragms and cervical caps. Toxic shock syndrome most often affects women age 19 and younger. Non-menstrual toxic shock can affect all ages and both sexes (up to 15% of cases occur in males). The condition tends to recur, so anyone who experiences toxic shock should always be on the lookout for symptoms and should seek immediate medical care if symptoms arise.




FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

  • Sudden, high fever in a previously healthy person (over 102°F).


  • Cold, clammy skin.


  • Vomiting and watery diarrhea.


  • A peeling rash that resembles sunburn (often seen on the fingers and toes).


  • Low blood pressure (sudden drop in blood pressure).


  • Dizziness.


  • Excessive thirst.


  • Rapid pulse.


  • Feeling of impending doom.


  • Mental changes, such as confusion.


  • Extreme fatigue and weakness.


  • Headache.


  • Sore throat.





  • CAUSES

    Some strains of staphylococcal bacteria produce toxins that enter the bloodstream, causing sudden symptoms. The main cause of toxic shock syndrome is a toxin made by the bacterium staphylococcus aureus. This staph bacteria is normally present in the vagina, but it is not known how it causes toxic shock syndrome. What is known is that two situations must be present in order to develop into toxic shock:
    • There must be an environment favorable for the toxins to grow (such as a blood soaked tampon).


    • There must be a way for the bacteria to enter the blood stream (such as through tiny tears in the vaginal walls caused by sliding tampons in and out).

    Super absorbent tampons have been identified as leading to toxic shock syndrome because women tend to leave them in place longer, which can create an ideal breeding ground for toxins, and because larger tampons more easily scrape the sides of the vagina, leading to tears.

    Toxic shock syndrome can also arise from wounds or infections in the throat, skin, lungs or bone.





    RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Continuous or prolonged use of tampons (particularly super absorbent) during menstrual periods.


  • The use of some barrier-type contraceptive devices, such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge. Leaving them inside the vagina longer than recommended by the manufacturer.


  • Staphylococcal infections.


  • Postpartum women.


  • Postoperative patients, particularly after nasal surgery.


  • Past history of toxic shock syndrome.





  • PREVENTIVE MEASURES

  • Change tampons frequently, and alternate them at night with sanitary napkins. Do not leave a tampon inside the vagina any longer than 24 hours.


  • Don't use super absorbent tampons. Use those made of cotton. Using regular-sized tampons can reduce risk.


  • Don't use tampons if you have a skin infection, especially near the genitals.


  • Wash hands thoroughly before inserting tampons. Staphylococci are commonly found on the hands.


  • Do not leave contraceptive devices in the vagina any longer than recommended by manufacturer. Do not leave a contraceptive device inside the vagina any longer than 24 hours. Reusable devices should be cleaned thoroughly between uses.


  • Get early medical attention for infected wounds. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition. Anyone showing symptoms of the illness should seek medical attention immediately.





  • EXPECTED OUTCOME

  • Most persons recover with early diagnosis and prompt hospital treatment, but some cases are fatal. Skin of the palms and soles often peels during recovery.





  • POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Severe shock.


  • Kidney failure.


  • Congestive heart failure.


  • Respiratory distress.


  • Loss of hair and nails.


  • Recurrence of TSS.


  • Mortality may be as high as 15% in severe cases.




  • TREATMENT


    GENERAL MEASURES

  • Diagnostic tests may include laboratory blood studies and mucosal cultures.


  • Immediate hospitalization is required to administer intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and electrolytes to correct fluid and electrolyte loss and dehydration and also to manage kidney or cardiac problems and provide mechanical breathing support, if needed.


  • Tampons, diaphragms or other foreign bodies are removed at once.





  • MEDICATION

  • Antibiotics, usually intravenous, to fight infection.


  • Intravenous fluids and electrolytes.





  • ACTIVITY

  • Resume your normal activities as soon as symptoms improve.





  • DIET

  • No special diet after recovery. Intravenous nourishment is usually necessary during hospitalization. However, it is wise to follow a well-balanced nutritional diet to help build up your immune system.


  • If taking antibiotics, include unsweetened or naturally sweetened yogurt in diet. Antibiotics will kill all bacteria, good and bad in the digestive tract (not to mention makes women more prone to yeast infections after completing antibiotic therapy). The yogurt helps to replace the good bacteria needed for proper digestion. Be sure to eat yogurt with active cultures.


  • BENEFICIAL DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

  • Vitamins A and B Complex increases resistance to disease.

  • Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids helps fight viral and bacterial organisms.

  • Zinc boosts the immune system.

  • Chlorophyll cleans the blood of toxins.

  • Goldenseal is an herbal cleanser and healer.

  • Garlic enhances the immune system.

  • Pau d'Arco helps rid the body of poisons.


  • Olive Leaf Plus, Black Seed w/ Olive Leaf Extract & High Potency Garlic, 100 Caps

    Olive Leaf has been used historically as an anti-bacterial that destroys only bad bacteria. It is also anti-fungal, antibiotic and anti-viral. Black Seed (Black Cumin), also known as "the Blessed Seed," has been traditionally used for a variety of conditions and treatments related to respiratory health, kidney and liver support, circulatory and immune system support, and to promote general health. Garlic is used to treat heart disease and strokes, and it can lower blood pressure and total cholesterol levels as well as kill bacteria. Combined, these herbs are a superior circulation and immune system support.
    Black Seed Theramune Ultimate with Garlic, 100 Caps

    Garlic supports healthy cholesterol levels by reducing serum cholesterol. It promotes healthy circulation, useful for arthritis, cardiovascular & respiratory support, digestive & ulcer support, strengthens resistance to disease and is excellent support for high blood pressure and cholesterol. Ingredients: Black Seed, Odorless Garlic Extract, Ginger, and Cayenne.
    Vitamin C 100 w/ Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps

    Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems. White blood cells (neutrophils) utilize Vitamin C to help produce cytotoxic enzymes which they use to eliminate foreign matter. It also helps strengthen collagen - a major connective protein. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the P450 enzyme detoxification system.
    AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 500 mg, 60 Vcaps

    AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is a proprietary extract produced from specially cultivated and hybridized mushrooms (Basidocymetes). According to extensive research in humans, as well as numerous non-clinical studies, AHCC supports immune system function through its ability to enhance macrophage and NK (Natural Killer) Cell Activity. NK cells and the intercellular mediators they produce are critical for the maintenance of healthy cell cycle function. In addition, NK cell number is dramatically increased in the presence of viruses. AHCC has also been shown to possess antioxidant properties and support healthy liver function.
    Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels

    Vitamin A is an important nutrient in maintaining cell membrane integrity. Vitamin A also plays an important role in proper bone formation, reproduction and vision. Nature's Way vitamin A is 100% natural from fish liver oil. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives. Warning: Women who are pregnant or likely to become pregnant should not use this product. The recommended daily serving contains more than 10,000 IU of Vitamin A from retinol, which in high amounts is known to cause birth defects.
    Zinc Lozenges w/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges

    Zinc has recently become recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold weather season. We have included our premium Echinacea and Vitamin C in a great tasting, natural berry flavored lozenge the whole family can enjoy. Take one lozenge every two hours, up to six lozenges per day. Allow lozenge to dissolve slowly in the mouth. Best used at the onset of throat irritation. This product should not be used for more than 7 days.
    Chlorofresh, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 90 Softgels

    Chlorophyll is good for overall colon health. Chlorofresh is used chiefly as an aid to reduce odor from a colostomy or ileostomy and to reduce fecal odor due to incontinence. Recommended Daily Dosage: Adults and children 12 years of age and older: take two capsules one or two times daily. If odor is not controlled an additional two capsules may be taken, but do not exceed six capsules per day. The smallest effective dose should be used. Children under 12: consult a doctor before use. For additional odor control, one or two capsules may be added to an empty colostomy or ileostomy bag. Usage Warnings: Possible side effects of overdose would include diarrhea, and possibly green feces and urine. Consult a healthcare professional before taking this product if you are pregnant or nursing a baby. Keep out of reach of children.
    Goldenseal Herb, Nature's Way, 400 mg, 180 Caps

    Goldenseal (hydrastis canadensis), a perennial wild native American herb, is also called Yellow Root. Native Americans used Goldenseal both internally and externally and also derived a dye from the root. Golden Seal is a very important traditional herb. Golden Seal was listed from 1860 to 1926 in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia. It was primarily used for inflammations of the mucous membranes and is useful in building up a person's immune system. This Goldenseal is harvested from the wild in the Appalachian Mountains. Recommendation: Take two capsules three times daily, preferably with food. For best results, use for two weeks continuously then take a one to two week break. For intensive use, take two capsules four times daily with food for a period not to exceed seven days. Caution: Not recommended for use by pregnant or lactating women. Keep out of the reach of children. Use with caution if you have an allergy to ragweed.
    Garlicin HC, Healthy Circulation Formula w/ Odor-Free Garlic, Nature's Way, 90 Enteric-Coated Tabs

    Scientific research shows garlic, hawthorn, cayenne and Vitamin E support cardiovascular health. Maintaining cardiovascular health, is largely a function of the following: Strengthening the heart muscle, Supporting circulation, & Controlling cholesterol. Garlicin HC Healthy Circulation Formula combines all the cholesterol controlling effectiveness of high allicin release Garlicin with the added benefits of Hawthorn extract, cayenne and Vitamin E. Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha) - helps promote cardiovascular health by improving blood and nutrient flow to the heart muscle. Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) - is a blood red warming herb that has an invigorating effect on the circulatory system. Vitamin E - is a potent antioxidant necessary in human nutrition. Antioxidants help combat free radicals and oxidants, molecules which damage fats and cells. Vitamin E helps prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Recommended Dose: For clinical effectiveness take 1 tablet twice daily with meals or as recommended by your healthcare professional. For general health maintenance take 1 tablet daily. Garlicin HC should be taken consistently for maximum benefit. Note: Consult with your health care provider if you have a disease or health-related condition that requires the lowering of cholesterol.
    Pau D'Arco (Purple Lapacho), Inner Bark Nature's Way, 545 mg, 180 Caps

    Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa), also known as Lapacho or Taheebo, is an excellent example of important plant knowledge gained from the vanishing rainforests. Potential medicinal breakthroughs are lost on a daily basis due to rainforest destruction. Nature's Way use only the purple flower variety (Ipe roxo). Nature's Way encourages active participation in saving the rainforests. Traditional medicinal use is as a blood cleanser.


    Note: Bulk herbs are available through Mountain Rose Herbs. For herbal supplements, HerbalRemedies.com has a selection of capsules, tablets, tinctures and powders. See links below.

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    NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...


  • You or a family member has symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. Call immediately! Shock develops rapidly.


  • New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.





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