When my new roommate started taking antibiotics because she had left her tampon in too long, I started to worry about it myself. Often, I don’t think about how long my tampon has been in, or what absorbency to use. Using too high absorbency or keeping a tampon in too long can lead to Toxic Shock Syndrome, which is a serious and sometimes fatal disease.
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What it is:Â An infection of either Staphylococcus aureusbacteria or streptococcus bacteria by using a too high absorbency tampon or leaving your tampon in for too long.
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Symptoms:
Vomiting or diarrhea,
Muscle aches
Dizziness
Headache, confusion, seizures
Organ failure
High fever (over 102°F)
Bright red coloring of the eyes, mouth, throat, and/or vagina
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Prevention:
Tampons should be stored away from heat and moisture to prevent bacteria from growing.
Always use the lowest absorbency needed.
Change tampons frequently.
Wash hands frequently and before application, as bacteria is often carried on the hands.
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Main Treatments:
Antibiotics for infection
Dialysis
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Toxic Shock Syndrome is deadly in 50% of cases and is not only from tampons. Open wounds, scabs, childbirth, and many other factors are susceptible. The most important thing is to be aware of the causes and symptoms, and take preventative measures.Â