[josie1983]

I removed a tampon late last night that I had put in Sunday lunchtime. I feel OK except for a hedache and slight nausea but I think that's just worrying about developing TSS. What are the symptoms and how soon would they be apparent?

[tickle]

These are the symptoms of toxic shock syndrome:

Fever greater than 102 F (38.9 C)
Rash (The rash of toxic shock syndrome is a red sunburn-like rash that covers most of the body. It is flat, not raised, and turns white if pressed. The rash may be difficult to see in dark-skinned people. Redness of the eyes, the lips, and the tongue [strawberry tongue] may also occur. The rash also can occur on the palms and soles of the feet.)
Headache (very common)
Muscle aches
Sore throat
Cough
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea (profuse and watery)
Abdominal pain
Lightheadedness or fainting (especially on standing up)
Confusion or disorientation
Low blood pressure (systolic less than 90 mm Hg)

You may not have any of these yet, but let me get this straight, you put a tampon in Sunday and you didn't take it out till today, Tuesday? You are lucky you were able to get it out and I have to say that the yuck factor is really great. That has to be the most unhygeinic thing I have ever heard.