Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by toxins produced by certain types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Although TSS is most commonly associated with the use of super-absorbent tampons and menstrual cups, there are other possible culprits. In this article, we will explore some of the other potential causes of TSS.

1. Wound Infections

TSS can also result from infections in cuts, burns, surgical wounds, insect bites, and other types of wounds. These infections are usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, which can produce the toxins that cause TSS.

If you have a wound that is red, swollen, and painful, or if you have a fever, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

2. Skin Infections

Staphylococcus aureus can also cause skin infections such as impetigo, folliculitis, and cellulitis. These infections can sometimes lead to TSS if the bacteria produce the toxins that cause the syndrome.

Symptoms of skin infections may include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, as well as fever and fatigue. If you suspect that you have a skin infection, see a healthcare provider for treatment.

3. Postpartum Infections

Women who have recently given birth are at risk of developing TSS if they have an infection in the uterus or other parts of the reproductive system.

Symptoms of postpartum infections may include fever, abdominal pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms after giving birth, seek medical attention right away.

4. Nasal Carriers

Some people carry Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in their nose or on their skin without experiencing any symptoms of infection. These people are known as nasal carriers.

In rare cases, nasal carriers can develop TSS if the bacteria produce the toxins that cause the syndrome. If you are a nasal carrier, you may be advised to use an antiseptic nasal ointment to reduce the risk of TSS.

5. Surgery

Although rare, TSS can occur after surgery if the surgical site becomes infected with Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.

Symptoms of surgical site infections may include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and drainage at the site of the incision, as well as fever and fatigue. If you have recently had surgery and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

6. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Although rare, IUDs have been associated with a slightly increased risk of TSS compared to other forms of birth control. The risk is highest in the first few weeks after insertion and is most commonly associated with the copper IUD.

If you have an IUD and experience symptoms of TSS, such as fever, headache, dizziness, and muscle aches, seek medical attention immediately.

7. Burns

Severe burns can cause extensive tissue damage, leading to an increased risk of bacterial infections that could result in TSS.

Symptoms of burn infections may include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness at the site of the burn, as well as fever and fatigue. If you have a severe burn and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

8. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Streptococcus pyogenes. In rare cases, pneumonia caused by this bacteria can lead to TSS if the infection produces the toxins that cause the syndrome.

Symptoms of pneumonia may include cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, and fatigue. If you have symptoms of pneumonia, seek medical attention immediately.

9. Boils

A boil is a painful lump that forms under the skin as a result of a bacterial infection. Boils are usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and can sometimes lead to TSS if the bacteria produce the toxins that cause the syndrome.

Symptoms of boils include redness, swelling, and tenderness around the lump, as well as fever and fatigue. If you have a boil and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

10. Flu

In rare cases, the flu virus can weaken the immune system, making it easier for bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes to cause infections that could lead to TSS.

Symptoms of the flu may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. If you have the flu and experience symptoms of TSS, such as a rash, seek medical attention immediately.