Thus, the name. Flu Like Symptoms Before Period - Medical Treasure Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Period Flu - Why Hormones Make You Feel Sick Before Your Period Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are a class of over-the counter (OTC) drugs that can ease pain during your period. Drinking water, tea, or broth can help replace the loss of fluid and electrolytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Bae J, et al. Bernstein MT, Graff LA, Avery L, et al. The period flu isnt a legit medical term, but it sure does sum up how crummy some people feel during their period. Take them as soon as you start bleeding or whenever you begin to have cramps. If we're talking pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting, then it can be ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and even pregnancy, so it depends on the specific symptoms," explains Dr. Shirazian. Barcikowska Z, Rajkowska-Labon E, Grzybowska ME, Hansdorfer-Korzon R, Zorena K. Inflammatory Markers in Dysmenorrhea and Therapeutic Options. Intrigued? The period flu mimics symptoms of the flusuch as headache, sore throat, and muscle achesnear your period. They can also help to rule out the possibility that something else might be going on, like an actual infectious illness. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. Prostaglandins aren't actually hormones, but they're like hormones. "Prostaglandins can cause intestinal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of being flushed, and general achiness." . Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. (Gentle reminder: You need a flu shot to prevent that.) She has a masters degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day. All rights reserved. If youre suffering from period flu symptoms, its important to get sufficient rest to help alleviate those symptoms. Some women with underlying conditions, like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can experience more pronounced PMS symptoms than others, but they're not specific to the 'period flu,'" explains Dr. Shirazian. There are ways you can support symptoms. Period flu refers to a pattern of flu-like symptoms that happen every month at the same time in your cycle, usually between ovulation and your period. An IUD that goes into the uterus during an office procedure. Period flu is not a legit medical term but it refers to the sick feeling most females get at the time of arrival of periods. Also, if you one of your period flu symptoms is diarrhea, this can lead to dehydration, so make sure you're getting enough H2O throughout the day, says Dr. Greves. Her advice: In other words, is period fludangerous? Period flu is a collection of symptoms that manifest in many women right before they begin flowing. Premenstrual syndrome. A quick look at the research reveals that there isn't much information about period flu (were not too shocked right?). Women who are on birth control don't notice any major changes during their period. Factors associated with menstrual cycle irregularity and menopause. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is another condition associated with periods and PMS, but its main feature is changes in mood. While the exact cause of period flu is still TBD (remember: there's not a lot of research on the topic), the most likely cause is the dramatic drop in hormone levels during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (aka the time between ovulation and your period), says Dr. Shirazian. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. Excess prostaglandins make their way into your bloodstream, which can. Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping are often associated with fluctuations in progesterone and decreased levels of melatonin during the menstrual cycle. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Finally, its worth considering whether something else may be affecting your health aside from your period or an infectious illnesses. If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start . They can also cause the body temperature to rise, which can lead to a low-grade fever. (2018). Although there's no cure, you can treat symptoms at home. This causes the low-grade fever. This shift is part of why you have PMS, so it makes sense that it would also be a cause for period flu. Treatments for period flu are similar to those for PMS. Many women experience nausea before their period begins. In fact, more than 90 percent of women most of them in their 30s say that they experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as mood swings, tender breasts, and headaches, according to the Office on Women's Health. If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. A common alternative option is hormonal contraceptives, such as: Hormonal contraceptives are low risk and can be tried and stopped if you dont like them, says Villarreal. The main reason why you may feel nauseous during your period is due to prostaglandins, which are the driving force behind helping your body shed its uterine lining. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. Prostaglandins: Functions and Purpose - Healthgrades Your body also produces prostaglandin in the lining of your uterus when you start your period. Its best to check with your doctor to see if any of your symptoms match up. Because they're inflammatory compounds, prostaglandins can also increase inflammation in your body leading up to your period, which, in turn, can trigger those flu-like symptoms, adds Dr. Greves. It can also lead to headaches. Read More Here are eight myths about periods we need to stop spreading. It's natural to have an uptick in inflammation during your period because prostaglandins are inflammatory hormones. Your menstrual cycle. These results were from a small study, and the women took the supplements for three cycles. When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . Dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, is one of the most common prostaglandin-related disorders that may cause you to see a doctor. They can help you figure out if you might be experiencing one of the conditions above and prescribe an appropriate treatment. Flu-like Symptoms Before Your Period | The Lowdown You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Talking with your healthcare professional can help you differentiate what's going on, especially if you are really struggling (you don't have to!). This can improve blood flow and give you some relief. It can also lead to headaches. 2023 Mira, Powered by Quanovate | All Rights Reserved. Alexis Jones is an assistant editor at Women's Health where she writes across several verticals on WomensHealthmag.com, including life, health, sex and love, relationships and fitness, while also contributing to the print magazine. he Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". But putting it all together isn't always easy. As estrogen decreases between ovulation and the start of your period, prostaglandins increase. When the premenstrual syndrome symptoms become worse, it may feel as though one is actually sick. "But if your symptoms are alleviated with your period or if they are cyclic in nature, then it's less concerning.". But for some menstruators, an impending visit from Aunt Flo can make them feel like they're coming down with something along the lines of the flu. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is pain from a disorder in your reproductive organs. Occasional fluctuations in your menstrual symptoms, flow, and overall duration usually arent cause for concern. It can be a little tricky, Dr. Wider says. Of course, if your period flu significantly impacts your day-to-day routine, and you must miss school or work consistently, it's a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to help you feel better fast. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780, womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome. However, its still important to be aware of its symptoms and potential relevance to your own individual cycle. These chills may also be accompanied by headaches, bloating, cramping, nausea, and feeling feverish. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Exercise provides the natural release of feel-good endorphins and helps with the inflammation caused by the prostaglandins, explains Dr. Greves. So, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, that's a red flag that it's not just cranked-up PMS. o compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. If you have additional symptoms such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat, get tested for COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in healthy women. The more inflammation in the body, the more prostaglandins are present. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. I'm not saying you can't drink occasionally, but if it's become a part of your daily routine and you are struggling with not feeling well, it's time to look at how much you are drinking. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. "For women who experience a lot of symptoms around their period, [hormonal birth control can] allow them to be able to go to work and do all of the lifestyle things they want. Villarreal notes that some people have more of a response to these inflammatory signals, such as the prostaglandins, that are released before and during their period. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. Period Flu: Signs, Causes, and Treatment - Oli And Alex She is a member of the MindBodyGreen Collective and a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". So, in general, while you might feel icky, you'll be totally fine in a few days. It's also important to mention that the more severe form of PMS, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), can also share some of the same symptoms. For example, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work wonders for managing pain and inflammation around the time of your period. Then comes the luteal phase, when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. Not to further complicate things, but symptoms of early pregnancy can also be similar to symptoms of period flu, Dr. Wider says. Continue for about 15 minutes. You can then share this information with your doctor and they can provide further guidance. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Nausea. Here's everything you need to know about period fluHelloGiggles Thankfully, there are options to help. Ginger can also help with pain, nausea, and other symptoms of PMS, as noted in several studies. Is It Possible to Get Pregnant on Your Period? When the endometrial cells lining the uterus begin to shed, these . Period Flu: It's RealSymptoms, Causes, Treatments - The Healthy In actuality, the "period flu" is not a real medical condition. Jehan S, Auguste E, Hussain M, Pandi-Perumal SR, Brzezinski A, Gupta R, Attarian H, Jean-Louis G, McFarlane SI. "Some warm compresses can also help with back pain," she adds. The thought of getting Parkinsons when youre young can be scary. Above all, be gentle with yourself. There's no cure for the period flu. It keeps everything constant," explains Dr. Shirazian. Endometriosis is a condition where the uterine lining grows in places other than the uterus. What's more, body temperature naturally increases during ovulation. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. PMS is pretty common, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. Treatments for Period Flu. Diarrhea during your period is a sign that you have too many prostaglandins. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Prostaglandins. Prostaglandins can affect various processes, including blood flow, pain, allergies, inflammation, blood clotting, and reproduction. Lifestyle changes that support your hormones, blood sugar balance, and inflammation can go a long way to helping you feel better. They may ask you to track your symptoms daily to see what symptoms happen while ovulating and menstruating. the pill) is another option for relieving flu-like symptoms around your period. If you dont use a hormonal method, starting one could help to tame some of your symptoms. Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tea may also help. But the hormonal IUD offers a more localized response in the uterus, so it may help with symptoms such as cramping and menstrual flow. Even though chills are not listed as a common symptom of PMS, there are still many reports online of individuals who experience chills before their period. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhoea. Ultimately, the period flu can be miserable. High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Gastrointestinal issues are a common symptom of premenstrual syndrome. If youve got nausea, chills, and weakness, and you dont normally have those before your period, its entirely possible that you have the actual flu (or COVID, or a stomach bug, or something else.). Primary dysmenorrhea is the cramping pain that comes before or during a period. Some people will only note mild intermittent cramping that can feel like throbbing or dull, intermittent pain, says Villarreal. Period Flu | Causes | Symptoms | Ways to Get Relief From Period Flu Although the "period flu" isn't an official medical diagnosis (and it's not related to influenza, the virus), many menstruators experience an onslaught of malaise-type symptoms, including fatigue, body aches, and headaches around the middle of their cycle, says Taraneh Shirazian, M.D., board-certified ob-gyn at NYU Langone Health. How to Track Ovulation and What That Can Tell You About Your Health, What to Know About the Period Hack Sydney Sweeney Used to Try to Stop Her Flow, Yes, TikTok Is Right: Butt Pain During Your Period Is Totally Common, 12 Less-Known Causes of Irregular Periods, The Causes of Runner's Diarrhea and What You Can Do About It. It is in no way related to influenza; however, it is a real phenomenon and the term period flu is simply used to describe what the symptoms feel like. Dr. Brighten is an international speaker, clinical educator, medical advisor within the tech community, and considered a leading authority on womens health. Here's Why You Always Feel Sick During Your Period - Brit - Co National Library of Medicine. Fortunately, you don't have to live in agony when that time of the month rolls around. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Digestive problems including constipation or diarrhoea. Those conditions sound (and are) painful, but just because youre having severe PMS and period symptoms doesnt necessarily mean you have secondary dysmenorrhea. So that's definitely something you want to keep in mind. If you track your period and tend to know when its about to start, consider taking a Motrin the day before. Read on to learn more about why you might feel like you have the flu before or during you period and what symptoms warrant a visit to a doctor. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. But after a few days of your period, prostaglandin levels decrease so your period flu pain (should) subside. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. 2021;18(15):7832. doi:10.3390/ijerph18157832. "If your symptoms are so bad, physically or emotionally, that theyre interrupting with your day-to-day life or interfering with your relationship, then you need to get checked out," Dr. Dweck says. New Opioid Vaccines Could Reduce Overdose and Save Lives, Yes, Pelvic Prolapse Is Common After Birth. 'Period flu' might be why you feel so crappy right before your period In one online discussion of period flu, a person said that their symptoms turned out to be due to an allergy to acetaminophen (Tylenol), a common painkiller people often take to ease period symptoms. Jo J, Lee SH. Exercise is another powerful home remedy for relieving period-related symptoms. Other evidence suggests that massage therapy may relieve pelvic pain, as well. If you are not trying to conceive (TTC), taking a hormonal contraceptive (i.e. This includes feelings of extreme fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and digestive issues. Keep in mind that not every medicine is explicitly approved for that purpose. But unless your period is late, theres no link between common period flu symptoms and pregnancy. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. Many doctors consider period flu as an exaggerated form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) due to the severity of its symptoms. Although the "period flu" isn't an official medical diagnosis (and it's not related to influenza, the virus), many menstruators experience an onslaught of malaise-type symptoms, including fatigue, body aches, and headaches around the middle of their cycle, says Taraneh Shirazian, M.D., board-certified ob-gyn at NYU Langone Health. Fun, right? While you might know that inflammation isn't great for your overall health, it's also critical to get it under control if you are experiencing period flu or PMS. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. These molecules bind with receptors in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls your bodys temperature. If you don't become pregnant (i.e. Prostaglandins and Period Flu . Another potential treatment option is taking diuretics, commonly referred to as water pills. Period flu can be referred to the situation when prostaglandins or the fatty acid compounds responsible for dislodging the uterine wall and starting period, get into the bloodstream and begin affecting the intestine, causing flu . A root cause approach considers why you have these symptoms in the first place instead of only addressing the symptoms. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. "My feeling from a medical standpoint is that this is all part of PMS syndrome, which can have both physical and emotional symptoms," Dr. Dweck says. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. There are other hormones at play, of course. Weakness. your wind-down routine (hello screens and cell phones), and anything else that could be interfering. When menstruation begins, both Dr. Dweck and Dr. Minkin generally see their patients' symptoms dissipate. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. You're probably already aware of a few positive diet changes you could make. Information provided on this web site DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our web site. If you have a sore throat, runny nose, fever, or other symptoms that look like a cold or flu, be sure to take time to rest and talk to your provider. There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. Home remedies and lifestyle treatment for period flu, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
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