Fun, right? Still, keep in mind that the research on whether those methods work is inconclusive. Prostaglandins can affect various processes, including blood flow, pain, allergies, inflammation, blood clotting, and reproduction. Vaghela N, Mishra D, Sheth M, Dani VB. At UW Medicine, our mission is to improve the health of the public. Progesterone is another hormone that increases right before a menstrual period. So lace up your sneakers and head out for a walk, do some yoga, or lift some heavy weights whatever works for you. When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. One reason for these symptoms is that prostaglandins are high just before and at the start of your period. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. 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. In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. 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. Your estrogen and progesterone levels are dropping at the same time, and there are a variety of theories about what exactly causes the worst period flu symptoms. Premenstrual Syndrome: Overview. Early symptoms of pregnancy and PMS cause many of the same symptoms, like nausea, bloating, fatigue, and breast swelling and tenderness. But have you ever heard of period flu? The symptoms are pretty varied, too, and can include: Experts arent totally sure about what causes this phenomenon, but hormone fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle are the most likely culprit. Premenstrual Syndrome: Treatment for PMS. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. She is the best selling author of Beyond the Pill and Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth. For example, chaste tree extracts, 1,0001,200 milligrams of calcium, or 50100 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily may reduce symptoms. Dr. Brighten is an international speaker, clinical educator, medical advisor within the tech community, and considered a leading authority on womens health. As the name indicates, period flu symptoms mimic the real flu but are tied into your menstrual cycle and aren't contagious. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start of your period. Rather, period flu is what happens when prostaglandins aka, the fatty acid compound that's responsible for dislodging your uterine lining and kick starting your period get into your blood. Her advice: In other words, is period fludangerous? Period flu symptoms, like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue, can feel a lot like the flu. 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. Bernstein MT, Graff LA, Avery L, et al. Youre not alone. This usually happens around 10-16 days before you start your period, depending on your menstrual cycle. You may even notice PMS symptoms as early as two weeks after the first day of your last period. For others, it only lasts a few days before or during their period. You deserve to have pain-free periods or at least have the pain managed so you can continue living a normal life during your cycle. When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . Sadr SS, Samimi Ardestani SM, Razjouyan K, et al. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. "Period flu symptoms can occur between ovulation and the beginning of your period," integrative medicine doctor Alejandra Carrasco, M.D., tells mbg. Take antidiarrheal medications. 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. Theyre also designed to cut down prostaglandin production. Fernndez MDM, Saulyte J, Inskip HM. All rights reserved. Heres why this symptom occurs and what you can do to find relief. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. By breaking up blood and fluid in the pelvic region, heat reduces swelling that may compress nerves and cause pelvic pain. Are some women more prone to the period flu than others? These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. When the premenstrual syndrome symptoms become worse, it may feel as though one is actually sick. 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. Is there a cure for period flu? Some people will only note mild intermittent cramping that can feel like throbbing or dull, intermittent pain, says Villarreal. .css-26w0xw{display:block;font-family:NationalBold,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-26w0xw:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-26w0xw{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.28598rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.575rem;line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:-0.5rem;}}Jen Garner Shares Her "Secret" for Thinning Hair, An Infertility Support Group Helped Me Heal, The Bachelors Sarah Herron Baby Loss Essay, More Daily Magnesium Linked To Lower Dementia Risk, The 10 Best HEPA Vacuums For Allergies And Mold, Why Stress Can Trigger Diarrhea & What You Can Do. (called prostaglandins), may enhance flu-like symptoms in some women. Premenstrual syndrome and comorbid depression among medical students in the internship stage: a descriptive study. Due to limited medical research, it is not possible to receive an official diagnosis for period flu. She has a masters degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day. When this happens, your body temperature goes up. One of their roles is to stimulate uterine contractionsneeded when you're pregnant and trying to give birth and to shed your uterine lining during your period. Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. While not technically a medical term and less well-understood than PMS, period flu is real to many women. If you cant take NSAIDs, try an OTC acetaminophen product. 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. 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. This can improve blood flow and give you some relief. There could be a different underlying issue at play, and the timing with your period is coincidence. If you have a cough, fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, then it's far less likely to be the 'period flu,'" says Dr. Shirazian. Flu symptoms & complications. High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. 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. (Prostaglandins are fatty acids that look like hormones that . If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. The impact of low progesterone levels on neurotransmitters (such as serotonin). Exercise is another powerful home remedy for relieving period-related symptoms. 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. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bad news: Its still poorly understood and not always acknowledged in the medical community. This leads to the cramping that you may feel. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. Home remedies and lifestyle treatment for period flu, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These symptoms all point to the common flu illnesses you know. It's natural to have an uptick in inflammation during your period because prostaglandins are inflammatory hormones. Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. But unless your period is late, theres no link between common period flu symptoms and pregnancy. 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. Zinat G,Fedieh H,Mamak S,Abbas RF,Maryam A. Everyone has heard of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the constellation of physical and mental symptoms that happens when you are about to get your period. When too many prostaglandins find their way into your bloodstream when the uterine wall breaks down. 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. So what's the difference between PMS and period flu, exactly? Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. A study on women with PMS found that those who took curcumin twice a day for the week before their period and three days after had less severe symptoms. From preventing bloating, aiding digestion, and boosting energy levels, water will be your best friend both before and during your period. In actuality, the "period flu" is not a real medical condition. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. Period flu can feel a lot like the common cold or influenza. When estrogen and progesterone levels shift in the second half of your cycle, you can feel more tired and not sleep as well. You can treat symptoms at home with hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others. These chills may also be accompanied by headaches, bloating, cramping, nausea, and feeling feverish. 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. There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. Why Is It So Hard for Black Women to Get Diagnosed with Endometriosis? Fortunately, you don't have to live in agony when that time of the month rolls around. Use birth control pills. If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. "This drop in the hormone LH and progesterone causes some women to feel a whole host of symptoms," says Dr. Shirazian. Still, some people have flu-like symptoms like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue before their periods. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z, Lpez-Liria R, Torres-lamo L, Vega-Ramrez FA, et al. An IUD that goes into the uterus during an office procedure. Changing hormone levels are the likely culprit of period flu symptoms. O'Shea noted that prostaglandins, hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining, can lead to some pretty unpleasant symptoms, too, including "diarrhea,. Some. The wild ride caused by hormones can vary greatly from one person to another. The good news: Youre not crazy or alone period flu is definitely a thing, based on anecdotal evidence. Its also important to make sure that you are drinking enough water around the time of your period. This shift is part of why you have PMS, so it makes sense that it would also be a cause for period flu. If period flu is a regular thing for you, its more than understandable that youd want to stop symptoms before they even start. 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. In your blood sample, they will look at hormones like estrogen, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and cortisol. As estrogen decreases between ovulation and the start of your period, prostaglandins increase. Symptoms can include extremely painful periods, pain during sex, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and painful bowel movements. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. It is not as same as having actual flu. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. Your uterine lining thickens, and estrogen continues to rise until, An egg is released mid-cycle, usually at the halfway point, and this is, The second half of your cycle is called the luteal phase. If you are not trying to conceive (TTC), taking a hormonal contraceptive (i.e. For instance, you might up your sugar and salty snack intake, which can cause swelling and inflammation, she explains. 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. The best way to combat the chills includes drinking plenty of water, eating regular nutritious meals, and keeping your body moving with regular exercise. Staying hydrated; exercising; eating healthy foods, like whole grains and vegetables; and getting enough sleep are key. 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. Naturally, if youre trying to get pregnant or have been iffy on your birth control lately, this might be more of a possibility than if youre using an incredibly effective method of birth control or havent had sex lately. Known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), these antidepressants are often used in patients with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). If the contractions are too strong that they may press up against surrounding blood vessels and cut off some of the oxygen supply. For example, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work wonders for managing pain and inflammation around the time of your period. 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. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. 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. "All of these symptoms can be [due to] lots of things. Eurasian J Med. In addition to decreasing progesterone levels, another potential cause of flu-like symptoms around your period is the impact of prostaglandins. Unlike the flu, which can leave you sidelined with chills, body aches, a sore throat, and nasal congestion, the period flu is not contagious and unlikely to lead to anything serious. 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. 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. This article will help you understand the basics of period flu in more detail, including potential causes and what you can do for relief and prevention. The influenza virus that causes the flu is not the same as the period flu. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. "Some people describe these symptoms as diarrhea and nausea because there's hypermobility of the bowels, lethargy, cramps, and lower back pain. Bipolar Disord. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: February 11, 2022Last Reviewed: February 12, 2022 Period Leave a Comment. Dull, continuous ache. Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. 2014;14:14. doi:10.1186/1472-6874-14-14, Conti B. Prostaglandin E2 that triggers fever is synthesized through an endocannabinoid- dependent pathway. You are not alone. They can also help to rule out the possibility that something else might be going on, like an actual infectious illness. Is Your Heavy Period a Sign of Something Serious? So, in general, while you might feel icky, you'll be totally fine in a few days. Gudipally PR, Sharma GK. This is because before your period, progesterone levels drop dramatically. The thought of getting Parkinsons when youre young can be scary. Weakness. Already. This can cause fatigue, cramps, and mood swings. Severe pain and sickness before and during your period come in a couple of different flavors. Flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea, and even fever are just some of the complaints that have people wondering if theyre getting sick or going crazy during that time of the month. Looking at the underlying root causes, such as hormone imbalances or inflammation, is vital for taking charge of symptoms. We may earn a commission from links on this page. Experts believe that changes in the levels of certain chemicals in your body during or before your period have a link to premenstrual symptoms. (2018). Learn how you can get a fluctuating, We reached out to a doctor and a bunch of people with uteruses to get the lowdown on what its like to have a period from puberty through menopause. For some it can last around two weeks, beginning as early as the day after ovulation and ending on the first day of their period. 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. Another potential treatment option is taking diuretics, commonly referred to as water pills. New Opioid Vaccines Could Reduce Overdose and Save Lives, Yes, Pelvic Prolapse Is Common After Birth. If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. 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. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. Once your period starts, gauge your symptoms to see if you need to continue to take them. 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. 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? (2011). Many women experience nausea before their period begins. The phenomenon of period flu has been widely discussed in magazines, blogs, and message boards and even though it isnt technically a virus or illness, it can still make you feel a bit down and icky! Menstrual Disc 101: How to Use One and Who Theyre For. In other words, theres no period flu diagnosis you could get from a doctor. When your PMS symptoms feel like the flu, and your actual period somehow feels worse its time for a change. Here are some things you can do to ease your symptoms: Here are some things you can start doing to improve your periods and prevent, or at least reduce, those icky period flu symptoms during your next cycle: Some discomfort during your period is normal, but symptoms that interfere with your daily activities should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Ultimately, the period flu can be miserable. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. Always speak with your doctor first before taking diuretics, as they may not be appropriate to take alongside other medications. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Period flu is not an official medical diagnosis, so there is no specific set of symptoms. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Last medically reviewed on July 29, 2019. Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. 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. Armour M, Ee CC, Naidoo D, Ayati Z, Chalmers KJ, Steel KA, de Manincor MJ, Delshad E. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tea may also help. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your belly, back, or thighs or wherever you feel pain or aches. Jo J, Lee SH. Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. With a few lifestyle changes to address inflammation and hormone balance, you can take charge of your health and feel like yourself again. 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. If your symptoms are very bad, you may take NSAIDs and birth control pills together. 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. You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. If the symptoms are serious enough, they may affect your quality of life. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. They could be a sign of an underlying condition that needs treatment.

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