Toxic Shock Syndrome Awareness

There was a lot of press about Toxic Shock Syndrome back in the late 1970s and early 1980s, however nowadays you never see much about it, aside from the little leaflets you may find inside of a tampon box. Toxic Shock Syndrome, or TSS, is most commonly associated with tampon use, specifically the use of super-absorbent tampons, and it remains a fact that about half of all TSS cases are tampon related. What you may not know is that Toxic Shock Syndrome can affect anyone – men, women and children. Aside from tampon use, Toxic Shock Syndrome has also been associated with the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm, cuts, scrapes, a blood infection called septicemia, surgical wounds, and even chickenpox blisters.

Toxic Shock Syndrome is classified as a systemic illness, meaning it affects the entire body. It can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (commonly referred to as Staph), which produce toxins. Another bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes, which is even more rare, is another cause of TSS. People who cannot fight these toxins become sick. Although this condition is rare, it can be a dangerous and potentially fatal condition.

Signs and symptoms of TSS develop very suddenly. Symptoms can include: Sudden high fever of at least 102 degrees Fahrenheit, a drop in blood pressure which may be associated with fainting or feeling faint, sunburn like rash, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and pale, cool, clammy skin.

You should call your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome, especially if you are having your period or if it has just ended and you have been using tampons. Doctors typically diagnose TSS by doing a physical exam and conducting blood tests that assess liver and kidney function, in order to rule out any other possible conditions. If they determine that it is TSS, treatment could involve hospitalization and antibiotics.

The best way to prevent tampon associated TSS is by using the lowest absorbency tampon possible and by alternating tampon use with the use of sanitary pads. Change tampons frequently, at least every four to eight hours. If you use tampons when sleeping, try to remember to change to a fresh one just before bed and change it as soon as you wake. It is also a good idea to store your supply of tampons in a cool, dry area, since the heat and moisture of a bathroom are breeding grounds for bacteria. If you have had TSS before, you should not use tampons.

Hand washing is very important in preventing the spread of bacteria that causes TSS and other infections, so try to remember to take extra care when washing your hands, especially during your period, and always wash before changing your tampon. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and antibacterial soap, scrubbing for a full 15 seconds before rinsing and drying. Taking just a few precautions can help to prevent your chances of getting TSS.

Laugh Lines - Ha!

What happened to my face? I guess mom was right, keep making that face and it will freeze that way! Whatever they're called…..laugh lines, worry lines, character lines, frown lines and one of the most unflattering descriptions, crows feet...not so cute nicknames. Ugh! They’re just another one of life’s cruel jokes, sneaking up on you over time, but seemingly appearing overnight. Over time, some lines form due to habitual facial expressions or movements, such as frowning or squinting, and some of the other lines are caused by outside factors like air pollution and sun exposure. I'll just check ' all of the above.'

Preventing and eliminating lines and wrinkles in our aging skin has become somewhat of a preoccupation among many people today, largely due to the premium our society places on a youthful look. Aging with dignity for some, cannot be accomplished without the help of a myriad of cosmetic products or even plastic surgery! It’s never too late to learn which elements can expedite wrinkles, and what you can do to slow down the inevitable aging process. Believe it or not, some of the solutions are very simple and won't break the bank.

Cigarette smoking, besides leading you to an early grave, has been known to contribute to wrinkles and aging skin disorders. Smoking for a number of years can lead to those deep lines radiating from your lips.

Air pollution and the effects on our ozone layer have been known to deplete important antioxidant (vitamin E for example) in our skin.

Sun exposure (both UVA and UVB rays) causes damage to your skin, which leads to wrinkles, along with other skin disorders and cancer. Even small amounts of ultraviolet radiation can start the chemical processes in your skin that leads to wrinkles.

What can you do? Well, it is really a matter of just using your common sense. Stop smoking – yes, easier said than done. Use sunscreen regularly (SPF 15 to 30) and make sure that it contains both UVA and UVB protection. There are many inexpensive moisturizers on the market that contain sunscreen, so it's not an added step in your routine, since you should be moisturizing after cleansing anyway. Eating well, getting plenty of rest, taking antioxidant supplements and making sure to drink plenty of water is vital in maintaining your skin's health and youthful glow. Eliminate caffeinated beverages, or at least reduce the amount you drink, and replace it with water. This was a hard habit for me to break, but now I really do prefer a nice cold glass of water over a soda and find it much more refreshing. Drinking water is probably the single most important aid in wrinkle prevention…think of it as moisturizing from the inside!