what is toxic shock syndrome

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. It can affect anyone, including men, children, and postmenopausal women. TSS can be caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria, but it may also be caused by toxins produced by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Risk factors for TSS include skin wounds, surgery, and the use of tampons and other devices, such as menstrual cups, contraceptive sponges, or diaphragms. Symptoms of TSS can develop quickly and include a sudden high fever, low blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, a skin rash that looks like sunburn, peeling patches of skin on the feet and hands, muscular aches, headaches, a sore throat, red eyes, confusion, and joint pains. If you suspect you have TSS, you should call 111 or check symptoms on 111 online. If youre using a tampon or menstrual cup, remove it and tell 111 that you were using one.