Since it's so poorly understood, you may not even know the symptoms you've been experiencing have a name. In other words, theres no period flu diagnosis you could get from a doctor. Your body also produces prostaglandin in the lining of your uterus when you start your period. "All of these symptoms can be [due to] lots of things. Hormonal birth control can also help ease pain and thin your uterine lining to lower prostaglandin production. Period Flu: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments - Best Health So what's really going on with your body? National Library of Medicine. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. Dysmenorrhea, the correct term for painful periods, can be treated with the help of your doctor. 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. 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. Period-flu symptoms tend to vary from person to person. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start of your period. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. Here's everything you need to know about period fluHelloGiggles This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. In:StatPearls. PMS, as its usually known, is the collection of physical and emotional annoyances that can occur shortly before your period is due. 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. Feeling queasy and fatigued as you wait for your period to turn up could set off alarm bells and have you running to the drugstore for a pregnancy test. Prostaglandins may cause a low-grade fever. Learn more about why it happens and how to manage symptoms. But if it happens regularly around your period, its likely what experts often refer to as the period flu.. Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Mens Health, Womens Health, Self, Glamour, and more. Before your period, their levels increase and can cause an inflammatory response. Are some women more prone to the period flu than others? Exercise provides the natural release of feel-good endorphins and helps with the inflammation caused by the prostaglandins, explains Dr. Greves. Menstrual cramps - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic There could be a different underlying issue at play, and the timing with your period is coincidence. National Library of Medicine. We use cookie to improve your experience. There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. If period flu is a regular thing for you, its more than understandable that youd want to stop symptoms before they even start. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. "Prostaglandins can cause intestinal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of being flushed, and general achiness." . Headaches. Period Flu: Signs, Causes, and Treatment - Oli And Alex (2011). "Some people describe these symptoms as diarrhea and nausea because there's hypermobility of the bowels, lethargy, cramps, and lower back pain. Villarreal recommends chatting with your doctor to find other options that might work better for you. If youre suffering from period flu symptoms, its important to get sufficient rest to help alleviate those symptoms. In other words, like traditional PMS, period flu tends to pop up after ovulation and before your period the exact number of days prior to your flow, however, varies from person to person. For example, cutting back on sodium can help to relieve bloating, while eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help to boost your energy levels and improve digestion. In addition to heavy muscle pain, cramping, bloating, and headaches, individuals with PMDD may also experience more mood-related symptoms in the days or weeks before their period. This usually happens around 10-16 days before you start your period, depending on your menstrual cycle. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. That process can cause some unpleasant symptoms, like diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and general achiness. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Occasional fluctuations in your menstrual symptoms, flow, and overall duration usually arent cause for concern. While there are some over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, those might not touch your pain if youre struggling with severe symptoms. You are not alone. 'Period flu' might be why you feel so crappy right before your period The Rise Of Period Flu: Why You Get Ill Before Your Period - Glamour UK Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. Ask your doctor to figure out the best choice for you. Some evidence suggests that herbs and supplements may relieve PMS symptoms. Below, doctors weigh in on this period phenomenon and how to Get. What's more, body temperature naturally increases during ovulation. 2014;14:14. doi:10.1186/1472-6874-14-14, Conti B. Prostaglandin E2 that triggers fever is synthesized through an endocannabinoid- dependent pathway. During your period, prostaglandins trigger muscles in your uterus to contract. Research has found that some of those conditions may include the following: Don't hesitate to tell a healthcare provider if period flu symptoms strike hard during each menstrual cycle or linger longer than a few days. Bernstein MT, Graff LA, Avery L, et al. Exercise not only helps to improve your mood, but it can also reduce the intensity of headaches, limit muscle pain, and improve your quality of sleep. If you get periods, you know about pre-menstrual syndrome. For those with these intense symptoms, it can be hard to believe some people dont have moments of gripping pain associated with their cycle. I would encourage women who suffer from a whole host of symptoms, including the 'period flu,' PMS, PCOS, and endometriosis, to consider hormonal birth control methods," says Dr. Shirazian. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. The use of any information provided on this web site is solely at your own risk. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. he Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. (2018). Many people who have periods experience something similar and often call it period flu. But it isnt really the flu (influenza), and you cant spread it to others. She has a masters degree in journalism from Syracuse University, lives in Brooklyn, and proudly detests avocados. Prostaglandins - Reproduction, Inflammation & Other Conditions It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhoea. A root cause approach considers why you have these symptoms in the first place instead of only addressing the symptoms. Premenstrual Syndrome: Overview. If you use a tampon during your period, you may be at risk for a condition called toxic shock syndrome, especially if you leave them in for long periods of time. Always speak with your doctor first before taking diuretics, as they may not be appropriate to take alongside other medications. Those conditions sound (and are) painful, but just because youre having severe PMS and period symptoms doesnt necessarily mean you have secondary dysmenorrhea. What Is 'Period Flu?' Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments - Shape The body produces prostaglandins in the areas where injury or illness occurs. 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. 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. Just a quick refresher on the most common symptoms of COVID-19, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Of course, if youre not sure whats happening with you, Dr. Wider says you should take a COVID-19 test. PMS is pretty common, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. Period flu isn't a medical term;. KEEPING IT REAL, WHILE KEEPING YOU EDUCATED. At this time, levels of the hormone progesterone increase to help prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? Symptoms that have been called period flu include: Some people also report an elevated temperature, runny nose, or sore throat. Select Region. They may run some tests to rule out other medical issues that may be causing these symptoms. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. She's written for many online publications, including Health, Prevention, Women's Health, What To Expect, and Apartment Therapy. Theyre also not a joke, either. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. Period flu symptoms run the gamut of PMS ailments and include: It's important to note, though, that common period flu symptoms don't include a fever, sore throat, and congestion signs that indicate you might truly be suffering from a cold or the flu virus. This can improve blood flow and give you some relief. These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in. As a matter of fact, many studies of menstrual cycles demonstrate that those who have higher levels of prostaglandins during menstruation for those with intense period pain. People can be irritable or depressed to the point of being suicidal, or may have panic attacks or fatigue. These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in your gut (hence the diarrhea and gas). The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". They can also help to rule out the possibility that something else might be going on, like an actual infectious illness. You might have spotting before your period due to changes in medication, pregnancy, infection, or another underlying condition. 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. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. It can be a little tricky, Dr. Wider says. Your period could be responsible for causing your fever if you're having one of these symptoms: Headache Sore throat Vomiting or stomach pain What are the symptoms of period flu? 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. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. Ever feel like youre coming down with the flu, only to find out that its actually your period? (Prostaglandins are fatty acids that look like hormones that . Keep in mind that not every medicine is explicitly approved for that purpose. 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. If you feel like youve been hit by a truck before your period with intense mood swings to boot you might have severe PMS symptoms. However, if the "period flu" is affecting your quality of life (think: staying home from work, forcing you to miss out on social activities), there's absolutely no reason to continue living with it. Exercise before and during your period has been known to reduce period symptoms, especially pain and cramps. Try applying scented oils and gently massaging above the pelvic region, around the navel, in a clockwise motion. National Library of Medicine. Once your period starts, gauge your symptoms to see if you need to continue to take them. Some other symptoms of period flu, include body aches or joint pain, fever-like chills that might not involve an actual fever, dizziness and breast tenderness. We created Right as Rain to serve as a resource to connect you with health and wellness information you can trust from researchers, healthcareproviders and faculty from UW Medicine and the University of Washington. You may feel like your body is fighting off a virus when it isn't. Theyre also designed to cut down prostaglandin production. How can your period affect bowel movements? - Medical News Today You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are a class of over-the counter (OTC) drugs that can ease pain during your period. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this web site. It's natural to have an uptick in inflammation during your period because prostaglandins are inflammatory hormones. Not to further complicate things, but symptoms of early pregnancy can also be similar to symptoms of period flu, Dr. Wider says. Some people feel pain thats more sharp.. Read our, 6 Self-Care Habits That Ease PMS Symptoms, Eat These 5 Foods To Ease Your PMS Symptoms, Here's How PMS Can Change In Your 20s, 30s, 40s. Periods arent gross or shameful. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. What Causes Nausea Before Your Period, and How Is It Treated? If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. The symptoms of PMS vary from person to person. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. Symptoms, Causes And Treatments. Adenomyosis is a condition in which the endometrial tissue grows inside the muscular wall of the uterus, where it functions the same as it would inside the uterus thickening, breaking down and bleeding each menstrual cycle. What Is the Period Flu? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment - POPSUGAR Fitness Everyone has heard of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the constellation of physical and mental symptoms that happens when you are about to get your period. Period flu causes. Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. Luckily, "period flu" is a lot easier to treat than the real one. This leads to the cramping that you may feel. Doctors dont clearly understand what causes these symptoms, but hormonal changes during this time may have a role to play. Intrigued? Heres what to know. Research also suggests that progesterone might affect neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). What Can I Do to Manage Period Flu Symptoms. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. "Off-label use" is when healthcare providers prescribe medicines that treat symptoms beyond their intent. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Some people experience period flu symptoms in the days just before their period that are part of whats called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Effects of Calcium Supplement Therapy in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome. If you regularly have flu-like symptoms around the time of your period and its affecting your quality of life, check in with your OB/GYN, a doctor who specializes in womens health, or your primary care doctor. Another powerful nutrient for hormone balance is diindolylmethane (DIM) which helps with estrogen detoxification. Your hormones shift dramatically between ovulation and your period, as you saw above. Be sure to take the medication with food to avoid a stomach ache and, worse, ulcers. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that trigger the uterine muscles to contract. 2020;17(3):988. doi:10.3390/ijerph17030988. Bae J, et al. Do you feel nauseous, dizzy, or bogged down by headaches as if you have the flu right around the time of your period? DOI: Mayo Clinic Staff. Prostaglandins are a type of fatty acid, and in women, one of their key roles is to help the uterus shed its lining during menstruation. Take them as soon as you start bleeding or whenever you begin to have cramps. Many women experience nausea before their period begins. 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. Experiencing mild flu-like symptoms in the run up to your period or even during your period is normal, and most of the time its not necessary to bring it up with your doctor. Efficacy of physiotherapy treatment in primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Still, the name fits well for people with flu-like symptoms before their periods. 7 Ways Your Thyroid Messes With Your Body, Jen Garner Shares Her "Secret" for Thinning Hair, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads, Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Both could be considered in addition to the above supplements to address hormone balance to help with period flu. An IUD that goes into the uterus during an office procedure. So, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, that's a red flag that it's not just cranked-up PMS. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. the pill) is another option for relieving flu-like symptoms around your period. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Prostaglandins are also involved in many other PMS symptoms, including headaches. Treatments That May Provide Relief From Period Flu, The Birth Control Side Effects to Know for Each Type of Contraceptive, 6 Things to Know About Working Out On Your Period, Outsmart Your Hormones All Month Long Plus 9 Surprising Things Making Your PMS Worse, How to Delay Your Period Safely, According to Ob-gyns. On the first day of a period, the level of prostaglandins is high. That said, both experts describe it as an exaggerated form (think: more intense, more flu-like) of PMS. 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.). If your symptoms are very bad, you may take NSAIDs and birth control pills together. "In the mid-portion of your cycle when you ovulate, your estrogen and progesterone levels start to surge, and they decline when you do not get pregnant and get your period," Dr. Dweck explains. Excess prostaglandins make their way into your bloodstream, which can.
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