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. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. 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. Nothing stated or posted on this web site or available through any services offered by Dr. Jolene Brighten, ND and Brighten Wellness, LLC, are intended to be, and must not be taken to be, the practice of medicine. This leads to the cramping that you may feel. Can Ibuprofen Really Reduce Your Period Flow? Treatments for period flu are similar to those for PMS. And the symptoms will generally occur on a monthly basis. However, if your symptoms prevent you from going to work/school or carrying out your daily responsibilities, thats the appropriate time to make a doctors appointment. Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Prostaglandins are produced before having a period to start the process of dislodging the lining of the uterine from the uterus wall so that a woman has period flow. This starter pack is exactly what every woman needs to bring her hormones back into balance! Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start of your period. Heres what you can do to start treating those nasty periods: And above all, know youre not alone many period-havers are also sick and tired of managing their severe period symptoms and of being sick and tired. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z, Lpez-Liria R, Torres-lamo L, Vega-Ramrez FA, et al. Looking at the underlying root causes, such as hormone imbalances or inflammation, is vital for taking charge of symptoms. For others, these symptoms may begin after they ovulate. Chemical changes in your brain, such as fluctuations in serotonin and other chemicals related to mood states, may also trigger some PMS symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. These are the best cures for those pesky flu-like symptoms: If no intervention is really working for you and you keep feeling horrible when flow is comin' to town, speak with your gynecologist. Some women also have: Nausea. Learn when to get help. If you struggle to control pain and inflammation, it may also be worth following an anti-inflammatory diet in the days or weeks leading up to your period. 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. The prostaglandins cause an inflammatory response in the body and this is why people feel flu-like." But what does that mean? The use of any information provided on this web site is solely at your own risk. Here are some ways you can find relief for your period flu symptoms. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Increased progesterone. 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. If you notice flu-like symptoms every month at the same time during your menstrual cycle, it's time to take a closer look. During your period, prostaglandins trigger muscles in your uterus to contract. Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping are often associated with fluctuations in progesterone and decreased levels of melatonin during the menstrual cycle. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. "The other thing that's going on as we get into our periods is that the uterus cranks out a chemical called prostaglandin," says Mary Jane Minkin, MD, clinical professor in the department of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive sciences at the Yale University School of Medicine. It is not as same as having actual flu. Her work has been featured in the New York Post, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, Bustle, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated, Elle, and ABC News. Prostaglandins aren't actually hormones, but they're like hormones. This is potentially a life-threatening illness. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this web site. 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. Another thing to discuss with your doctor is whether a change in birth control could help. Aleve, Motrin, Advil) regularly about two days before your period starts to help ease prostaglandin-causing pain symptoms, provided you don't have any contraindications, recommends Dr. Greves. Flu symptoms & complications. Kiarra King, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified gynecologist from Oak Park, Illinois. But if it happens regularly around your period, its likely what experts often refer to as the period flu.. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Dr. Dweck also points out that often times women with pre-existing conditions, like autoimmune issues or rheumatoid arthritis, will even experience exacerbation or a flare-up of their symptoms just before their periodand then things get better after they menstruate. So what's the difference between PMS and period flu, exactly? Is there a cure for period flu? Theyre also not a joke, either. 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. While not technically a medical term and less well-understood than PMS, period flu is real to many women. Sweating at night or when you otherwise wouldnt expect to feel hot. This also reduces muscle contraction. We think possibly some underlying diseases such as endometriosis, adenomyosis or anatomic variants can increase pain and bleeding in some people, Villarreal says. Cleveland Clinic: Dysmenorrhea, Can Tracking Your Basal Body Temperature Help You Conceive?, Columbia University: I keep getting a fever with my period., NHS: Periods and fertility in the menstrual cycle., University Park OBGYN: Can You Get a Fever During Your Period?, UpToDate: Patient education: Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) (Beyond the Basics)., Chemistry Libretexts: Prostaglandins.. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. 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. "So it does make you wonder, [even though] it's not in the literature, if theres some sort of immune hit that occurs just before your period bringing these flu-like symptoms to life," Dr. Dweck notes. "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. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. While prostaglandins cause uterine muscle contraction (aka menstrual cramps), they also affect the bowels. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. The main thing to recognize is that these symptoms occur at the same time every month and improve or disappear once your period comes. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that affect several bodily functions, including inflammation, pain and uterine contractions. If you have additional symptoms such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat, get tested for COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. But the hormonal IUD offers a more localized response in the uterus, so it may help with symptoms such as cramping and menstrual flow. 2014;8(4):74-79. 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. Not to further complicate things, but symptoms of early pregnancy can also be similar to symptoms of period flu, Dr. Wider says. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. Its normal to experience cramping, bloating or irritability during your monthly cycle, but it shouldnt majorly interfere with your life. Jo J, Lee SH. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Dizziness. Period flu symptoms, like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue, can feel a lot like the flu. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. If the contractions are too strong that they may press up against surrounding blood vessels and cut off some of the oxygen supply. In addition to decreasing progesterone levels, another potential cause of flu-like symptoms around your period is the impact of prostaglandins. And you may have increased water retention, which could lead to joint pain, Dr. Dweck says. The thought of getting Parkinsons when youre young can be scary. It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice new or changing breast lumps or nipple discharge. They can do a proper workup and help you feel A-okay when your period comes your way. Khayat S, Fanaei H, Kheirkhah M, Moghadam ZB, Kasaeian A, Javadimehr M.. Curcumin attenuates severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. So the thinking is that when progesterone fluctuates, so do the levels of serotonin, which can potentially lead to, for example, the increased feelings of fatigue that come with period flu. Appointments 216.444.6568. Its best to check with your doctor to see if any of your symptoms match up. The feelings of malaise and pain may kick in just before or at the time you start your period each month. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. A quick look at the research reveals that there isn't much information about period flu (were not too shocked right?). "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. They are contagious and you will need to take steps to limit the spread. 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. ICYDK, prostaglandins are hormone-like substances in the body that trigger your uterine muscles to contract so the uterus sheds its lining during your period. The patch, pill, and ring work similarly because they're systemic hormones, meaning they're absorbed into the body and don't go straight to your uterus, says Dr. Greves. A little cycle science: During the ovulation phase (typically around day 14 of your cycle), there's a dramatic increase in luteinizing hormone (LH), which causes an ovary to release an egg. These molecules bind with receptors in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls your bodys temperature. When menstruation begins, both Dr. Dweck and Dr. Minkin generally see their patients' symptoms dissipate. "All of these symptoms can be [due to] lots of things. Try heat therapy. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. Several medicines may treat period flu symptoms. Changing hormones influence your brain chemistry, causing serotonin levels to fluctuate. 2800 N 6th St Unit 1 PMB 953 Saint Augustine FL 32084, Get Your FREE Hormone Starter Kit with7 Day Meal Plan & Recipe Guide. Nausea, fatigue, body achessounds like .css-7qz8rz{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#f7623b;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:background 0.4s;transition:background 0.4s;background:linear-gradient(#ffffff, #ffffff 50%, #feebe7 50%, #feebe7);-webkit-background-size:100% 200%;background-size:100% 200%;}.css-7qz8rz:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-position:100% 100%;background-position:100% 100%;}the flu, right? 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. 2021;18(15):7832. doi:10.3390/ijerph18157832. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. If you think you might be pregnant, the best way to distinguish between the two is with a pregnancy test, Dr. Wider says. For others, it only lasts a few days before or during their period. Gudipally PR, Sharma GK. Excess prostaglandins make their way into your bloodstream, which can. You may even notice PMS symptoms as early as two weeks after the first day of your last period. Prostaglandins. 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. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. 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. DOI: Dennerstein L, et al. Severe pain and sickness before and during your period come in a couple of different flavors. In actuality, the "period flu" is not a real medical condition. Already. Doctors dont clearly understand what causes these symptoms, but hormonal changes during this time may have a role to play. When too many prostaglandins find their way into your bloodstream when the uterine wall breaks down. The pain may range from mild to severe, but it usually goes away with 1-3 days. But putting it all together isn't always easy. The best way to combat the chills includes drinking plenty of water, eating regular nutritious meals, and keeping your body moving with regular exercise. You're probably already aware of a few positive diet changes you could make. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in healthy women. Dull, continuous ache. The bad news: Its still poorly understood and not always acknowledged in the medical community. If you dont use a hormonal method, starting one could help to tame some of your symptoms. Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. For people with primary dysmenorrhea, NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can help treat the pain. Dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, is one of the most common prostaglandin-related disorders that may cause you to see a doctor. Lastly, healthcare providers may take a blood sample to test for other possible health conditions with similar symptoms. Do you feel nauseous, dizzy, or bogged down by headaches as if you have the flu right around the time of your period? Ever feel like youre coming down with the flu, only to find out that its actually your period? Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. A study in BMC Womens Health found that Increased hydration is associated with a reduction in pain for those suffering from dysmenorrhea. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Still, healthcare providers may use the same tools that usually diagnose PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Period flu is . 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. Once your period starts, dysmenorrheacan cause headaches, diarrhea and a general feeling of malaise. Generally, the "period flu" isn't something you should worry about too much, especially if you're noticing a monthly pattern with your symptoms. 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. Vaghela N, Mishra D, Sheth M, Dani VB. It can also lead to headaches. Jehan S, Auguste E, Hussain M, Pandi-Perumal SR, Brzezinski A, Gupta R, Attarian H, Jean-Louis G, McFarlane SI. National Library of Medicine. Exercise provides the natural release of feel-good endorphins and helps with the inflammation caused by the prostaglandins, explains Dr. Greves. 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. Youre not alone. Bae J, et al. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. 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? Just practice safety methods while you wait for the results, like wearing a mask when youre around others and social distancing. But that's not all (lucky you!). She has a masters degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Research on the impact of certain foods and nutrients on PMS symptoms suggests a healthy diet primarily consisting of unprocessed foods is one of the best ways to ward off uncomfortable period-related conditions. If you find that your chills still wont go away and they are interrupting your daily life, it might be a good idea to speak with your doctor for further advice. While there is some overlap, like tender breasts or mood swings, they may feel more like the flu than what you would typically associate with PMS. According to. The best way to understand how long the symptoms last for you is to keep track of your symptoms. We need more research to completely understand all of the causes for these symptoms. Focusing on the root cause may not lead to immediate relief, but it's critical if you want to work on prevention. Armour M, Ee CC, Naidoo D, Ayati Z, Chalmers KJ, Steel KA, de Manincor MJ, Delshad E. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. Should You Eat Based On Your Menstrual Cycle? Premenstrual syndrome. There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. This blocks the formation of prostaglandins, thus reducing symptoms, but the catch is that you need to take it before things get bad. In the case of the period flu, prostaglandins are to blame. If you also have physical sickness leading up to your period, you might have what people refer to as period flu, a more severe set of PMS symptoms. As with PMS, hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others, can reduce and prevent period flu symptoms. 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. 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 . It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhoea. This includes feelings of extreme fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and digestive issues. Then comes the luteal phase, when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Some of us need to cut back on sugar, while others need to bump up intake of fiber-rich fruits and veggies. Take pain relievers. They can help you figure out if you might be experiencing one of the conditions above and prescribe an appropriate treatment. You should also speak with your doctor immediately if you are struggling with mood-related symptoms around the time of your period, such as extreme mood swings, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or thoughts of suicide. Intrigued? There are a few potential hacks you can try, according to womens health expert Jennifer Wider, MD. One word: hormones. Those conditions sound (and are) painful, but just because youre having severe PMS and period symptoms doesnt necessarily mean you have secondary dysmenorrhea. Premenstrual syndrome - self-care. 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. The heat helps with blood circulation and reduces fluid retention. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Menstrual Disc 101: How to Use One and Who Theyre For. A variety of symptoms, like the kind of fatigue that happens when you get the real flu, may ensue as a result. 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. Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Some people will experience these flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to their period, while others will experience them the. 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. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. When the endometrial cells lining the uterus begin to shed, these . "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. A root cause approach considers why you have these symptoms in the first place instead of only addressing the symptoms. If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. Healthcare providers use synthetic forms of prostaglandins to treat several conditions. For others, you might find yourself glued to your bed, daydreaming you were one of those happy, skipping people in those commercials for period products. Dr. Graves recommends eating plenty of inflammation-fighting foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to help fight the pain associated with the increased levels of prostaglandins. Dont smoke, and limit how often you drink beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as these may trigger some of the symptoms. (called prostaglandins), may enhance flu-like symptoms in some women. While many reach for an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication (and no judgment here if that's what helps you get through, but they do have side effects, especially if used longer-term), the following are more natural options that can help: Try to include nutrient-dense foods like lots of leafy greens, berries, olive oil, nuts, and seeds which can help bring inflammation down (and keep you regular if you are feeling bloated or constipated. Perimenopause can happen years before your period stops, and it can include hot flashes, mood swings, and heavier, lighter, or irregular periods. So you can just blame the hormonal rollercoaster that is PMS until there's more conclusive science on this. High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. For example, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work wonders for managing pain and inflammation around the time of your period. "There isn't a specific patient type that makes you more prone to the 'period flu,' but certainly, some women are more prone to feeling PMS symptoms during their period. he Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. 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. Like PMS, period flu symptoms can look different for everyone. Continue for about 15 minutes. Get to Know All 4 Menstrual Cycle Phases and How Each Impacts Your Mind and Body, Outsmart Your Hormones All Month Long (Plus 9 Surprising Things Making Your PMS Worse). Relief. They can also cause the body temperature to rise, which can lead to a low-grade fever. Ultimately, the period flu can be miserable. Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in healthy women, Prostaglandin E2 that triggers fever is synthesized through an endocannabinoid- dependent pathway, Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at the molecular level, Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life, Efficacy of physiotherapy treatment in primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Premenstrual syndrome and comorbid depression among medical students in the internship stage: a descriptive study, Effects of the menstrual cycle on bipolar disorder, Association between generalized anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder in a diagnostic interviewing study, Gastrointestinal (GI) distress, like constipation and diarrhea, Intolerance of loud noises or bright lights.
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