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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffThe signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include:
- A sudden high fever
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles — which, after a week or so, generally leads to peeling of the skin on your hands and feet
- Confusion
- Muscle aches
- Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat
- Seizures
- Headaches
When to see a doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you experience the signs or symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. This is especially important if you're menstruating or have just finished menstruating and have been using tampons or if you have a skin or wound infection. Tell your doctor what your symptoms are and how long you've had them.
- Cosgrove SE. Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 4, 2009.
- Moreillon P, et al. Staphylococcus aureus (including staphylococcal toxic shock). In: Mandell GL, et al. Principles and Practices of Infectious Diseases. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone; 2005. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/124020242-3/0/1259/1580.html?tocnode=51381930&fromURL=1580.html. Accessed March 5, 2009.
- Eckert LO, et al. Infections of the lower genital tract: Vulva, vagina, cervix, toxic shock syndrome, HIV infections. In: Katz VL, et al. Comprehensive Gynecology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/124020242-4/0/1524/147.html?tocnode=53759472&fromURL=147.html. Accessed March 5, 2009.
- Menstruation and the menstrual cycle. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Women's Health. www.womenshealth.gov/faq/menstruation.pdf. Accessed March 5, 2009.
