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What Are the Symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome?

This illness usually occurs in women while they are menstruating or have just completed a menstrual period; or in a new mother or any recent surgery or burn patient. Here are some common symptoms:

• Fever over 102° F.
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• A rash resembling a sunburn with peeling skin, especially on fingers and toes.
• Dizziness or mental confusion.
• Pale and clammy skin, signaling a rapid drop in blood pressure; if toxic shock is left untreated at this stage, it will quickly lead to loss of consciousness, cardiac and respiratory failure and death.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you suspect you have symptoms of toxic shock syndrome.