The defense is activated

Normally, only a small number of them react when "enemies" invade the body. This is because only very specific defense cells are responsible for each bacterium. It is extremely rare for all of them to be mobilized at once. In toxic shock syndrome, however, this is exactly what happens.

This is because the toxin from the triggering bacteria causes unhealthy turmoil in the immune system. And this mass of activated immune cells then causes inflammation in the body quite quickly. This can affect many vital organs such as the heart, liver or lungs.

The tampon is to blame

The syndrome is often referred to as tampon disease, as it is the culprit in every second woman affected. If it remains in the vagina for too long, bacteria settle on it, which can trigger toxic syndrome. This is particularly common in the USA, where a certain material is used for particularly absorbent tampons so that they don't have to be changed so often - this material is not approved for use here.

However, if the tampon is inserted with a finger, the bacteria can enter the vagina via the hand. As a preventative measure, tampons should be changed every four hours and a sanitary napkin used at night. Skin injuries, burns, insect bites or surgical wounds can also trigger the syndrome.

It can be fatal

And these are the symptoms: high fever, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, drop in blood pressure, general redness like sunburn. The bacteria can be treated very well with an antibiotic - provided the infection is recognized in the first place. If it remains untreated, it is fatal and the whole body is poisoned.