Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Featuring a 28 day plan to take back your cycle and dozens of charts, checklists, and diagrams to help along the way. While there are some over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, those might not touch your pain if youre struggling with severe symptoms. may occur because the immune system is reacting to higher levels of prostaglandinshormone-like substances present . That said, both experts describe it as an exaggerated form (think: more intense, more flu-like) of PMS. 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. The best way to figure out whats happening here isagaintake a test. Your body also produces prostaglandin in the lining of your uterus when you start your period. For more information, see our. Excess prostaglandins make their way into your bloodstream, which can cause a whole bunch of period symptoms, like cramps, period poop, and farts dont pretend you dont know what Im talking about. Select Region. And you may have increased water retention, which could lead to joint pain, Dr. Dweck says. Villarreal says that for some, their pain might be bad enough to need medication to manage it. However, its still important to be aware of its symptoms and potential relevance to your own individual cycle. Get a massage. This process can cause inflammation resulting in pain and feeling feverish. This content is imported from poll. One reason for these symptoms is that prostaglandins are high just before and at the start of your period. 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 problems, solved: Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. In the uterus, they work to loosen the uterine lining which prompts your period. 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. Is Your Heavy Period a Sign of Something Serious? Many doctors consider period flu as an exaggerated form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) due to the severity of its symptoms. They can help you figure out if you might be experiencing one of the conditions above and prescribe an appropriate treatment. If you think you might be pregnant, the best way to distinguish between the two is with a pregnancy test, Dr. Wider says. 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. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. Prostaglandins: What It Is, Function & Side Effects - Cleveland Clinic If you don't become pregnant (i.e. As with PMS, hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others, can reduce and prevent period flu symptoms. It isnt totally clear what causes it, but hormonal fluctuations likely play a big role. An IUD that goes into the uterus during an office procedure. 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? Keep it simple by examining your sleep environment (too hot or loud?) 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. 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. Exercise before and during your period has been known to reduce period symptoms, especially pain and cramps. "Birth control works because it stabilizes your hormones, so you don't have that LH surge or drop in progesterone levels. Higher levels of prostaglandins can cause more severe menstrual. 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. Premenstrual syndrome. According to Dr Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." . You can take steps throughout your menstrual cycle to reduce the severity of period flu symptoms, like: In general, conditions comorbid with PMS may link to the period flu. 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. While lifestyle changes and home treatment can usually help, talk to your healthcare provider if your symptoms are getting in the way of your daily life. There are no studies that show your immune system is actually taking a hit. DOI: Dennerstein L, et al. 'Period Flu' Symptoms & Treatments - The Honey Pot Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. 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. This is because before your period, progesterone levels drop dramatically. Appointments 216.444.6568. Your doctor will tell you the best treatments for these. Eurasian J Med. . The first day of your period is day one of your menstrual cycle. So, in general, while you might feel icky, you'll be totally fine in a few days. To diagnose PMS and PMDD, healthcare providers ask about your symptoms, when they occur during your menstrual cycle, and their effect on your life. Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. If period flu is a regular thing for you, its more than understandable that youd want to stop symptoms before they even start. Period Flu: Why You Feel Sick Before Your Period, From MDs - mindbodygreen 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. We need more research to completely understand all of the causes for these symptoms. Premenstrual syndrome and comorbid depression among medical students in the internship stage: a descriptive study. 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. PMS, as its usually known, is the collection of physical and emotional annoyances that can occur shortly before your period is due. When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. Fun, right? Ginger can also help with pain, nausea, and other symptoms of PMS, as noted in several studies. 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.. Not to further complicate things, but symptoms of early pregnancy can also be similar to symptoms of period flu, Dr. Wider says. The influenza virus that causes the flu is not the same as the period flu. Period Flu Might Be Why You Feel So Crappy Right Before Your Period, How Gynecologists Soothe Their Own Period Cramps. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Period flu symptoms, like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue, can feel a lot like the flu. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. Treatment for diarrhea. the pill) is another option for relieving flu-like symptoms around your period. Period flu causes. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. Try to rest when you can. This is especially true if you are currently taking birth control bills, as certain supplements may reduce their effectiveness. Office on Women's Health. Endometriosis is a condition where the uterine lining grows in places other than the uterus. Even if period flu isn't as commonly known as PMS, it doesn't make it less of a problem. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is pain from a disorder in your reproductive organs. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in. Period flu is real in the sense that people experience it and have given it a name, but its not the flu, its not contagious, and it isnt an illness with a medical definition. 2014;14:14. doi:10.1186/1472-6874-14-14, Conti B. Prostaglandin E2 that triggers fever is synthesized through an endocannabinoid- dependent pathway. Is Antihistamine Use Making Me Gain Weight? 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? The effects of these diet and lifestyle changes right before your period can mimic flu like symptoms too. 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 (PMS). 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. Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that up-regulate inflammation in the body. So its not surprising that an oncoming period would feel similar to an illness. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. Thus, the name. Period Flu: What Is It? - WebMD 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. What's more, body temperature naturally increases during ovulation. According to Dr. Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." When it comes to caffeine, these beverages can actually lead to worsening anxiety, fatigue, sleep, and cramps for some people. The best way to combat the chills includes drinking plenty of water, eating regular nutritious meals, and keeping your body moving with regular exercise. 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. Relief. For instance, you might up your sugar and salty snack intake, which can cause swelling and inflammation, she explains. Take antidiarrheal medications. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. 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. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your belly, back, or thighs or wherever you feel pain or aches. The tissue that lines the inside of the uterus sheds when the uterine muscles tighten. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It can also lead to headaches. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. When menstruation begins, both Dr. Dweck and Dr. Minkin generally see their patients' symptoms dissipate. What Causes Gas Before My Period and What Can I Do About It? With a few lifestyle changes to address inflammation and hormone balance, you can take charge of your health and feel like yourself again. But that's not all (lucky you!). Another potential treatment option is taking diuretics, commonly referred to as water pills. What Is the Period Flu? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment - POPSUGAR Fitness In addition to decreasing progesterone levels, another potential cause of flu-like symptoms around your period is the impact of prostaglandins. There are also medications that may help with some of the symptoms: antidepressants may be appropriate for some people who have issues with depressive feelings, for example. Before chalking up your symptoms to period flu, consider whether there might be something else going on. From preventing bloating, aiding digestion, and boosting energy levels, water will be your best friend both before and during your period. You may have physical symptoms too, including cramps, headaches, or muscle pain. Period Flu: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | YourTango Fortunately, you don't have to live in agony when that time of the month rolls around. 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. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Before your period, their levels increase and can cause an inflammatory response. Villarreal recommends chatting with your doctor to find other options that might work better for you. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. Menstrual cramps - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Just practice safety methods while you wait for the results, like wearing a mask when youre around others and social distancing. Pain that starts 1 to 3 days before your period, peaks 24 hours after the onset of your period and subsides in 2 to 3 days. Its normal to experience cramping, bloating or irritability during your monthly cycle, but it shouldnt majorly interfere with your life. Heres Why, 8 Tips to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis From Recurring, Your Go-To Household Items Could Be Polluting Your Home. When too many prostaglandins find their way into your bloodstream when the uterine wall breaks down. New Opioid Vaccines Could Reduce Overdose and Save Lives, Yes, Pelvic Prolapse Is Common After Birth. This could be anything from walking or swimming to cycling, jogging, or playing a sport. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. Women who are on birth control don't notice any major changes during their period. Symptoms usually resolve one to two days after your next period starts. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. 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. They also elevate when you have an actual infection and can help explain why you may have a low-grade fever. Heres why this symptom occurs and what you can do to find relief. Can Ibuprofen Really Reduce Your Period Flow? What Is Period Flu? When this happens, your body temperature goes up. You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. These compounds have hormone-like effects and are found in tissue throughout the body. "And if thats persistent, you should get that checked out.". Period Flu - What You Need to Know - Dr. Jolene Brighten 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. (2011). Is there a cure for period flu? Here's everything you need to know about period fluHelloGiggles Sore muscles. Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, progesterone might affect neurotransmitters, serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. Period Flu: It's RealSymptoms, Causes, Treatments - The Healthy 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. 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. If your symptoms are very bad, you may take NSAIDs and birth control pills together. (Gentle reminder: You need a flu shot to prevent that.) Because it's not well studied, it's hard to say how, if at all, period flu differs from PMS or even other period-related conditions such as premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD), says Dr. Greves. I know that just telling you to sleep more isn't helpful if you struggle with insomnia or your sleep patterns are off. Period flu is not an official medical diagnosis, so there is no specific set of symptoms. 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. What Is 'Period Flu' and How Can You Deal With It? - Lifehacker Perimenopause can happen years before your period stops, and it can include hot flashes, mood swings, and heavier, lighter, or irregular periods. They can also cause the body temperature to rise, which can lead to a low-grade fever. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? 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. Otherwise, doctors arent entirely sure what exactly causes these symptoms. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 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. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. But for some women, period flu can feel even worse than typical PMS symptoms. "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. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. For example, chaste tree extracts, 1,0001,200 milligrams of calcium, or 50100 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily may reduce symptoms. 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. Prostaglandins: What They Are and Their Role in the Body - Healthline Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. your wind-down routine (hello screens and cell phones), and anything else that could be interfering. A study in BMC Womens Health found that Increased hydration is associated with a reduction in pain for those suffering from dysmenorrhea. Prostaglandins also cause strong muscle contractions in the uterus that lead to pain, discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea among some women. Weakness. You can treat symptoms at home with hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others. Like PMS, the cause of period flu can be chalked up to the bodys response to changing hormone levels. 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. 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. Zinat G,Fedieh H,Mamak S,Abbas RF,Maryam A. Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. You are not alone. . 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. Are some women more prone to the period flu than others? But while those are helpful I would still encourage you to work with a qualified practitioner to understand why your hormones are imbalanced to begin with. What Can I Do to Manage Period Flu Symptoms. 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. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Luckily, "period flu" is a lot easier to treat than the real one. Many women experience nausea before their period begins. Period Flu: Signs, Causes, and Treatment - Oli And Alex During your period, prostaglandins trigger muscles in your uterus to contract. 5 Some people may describe their period flu symptoms as in line with the "stomach flu," which is not a real diagnosis but an informal. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We may earn a commission from links on this page. 2023 Mira, Powered by Quanovate | All Rights Reserved. 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. This is potentially a life-threatening illness. We think possibly some underlying diseases such as endometriosis, adenomyosis or anatomic variants can increase pain and bleeding in some people, Villarreal says. And if you experience intense pain during your period, you may have dysmenorrhea. Premenstrual syndrome - self-care. 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. "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. In the case of the period flu, prostaglandins are to blame. Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: February 11, 2022Last Reviewed: February 12, 2022 Period Leave a Comment. For example, maybe you have a thyroid disorder, which exhibits similar symptoms (excessive fatigue, weakness, muscle and body aches), Dr. Dweck notes. Period flu is . Prostaglandins may cause a low-grade fever. Khayat S, Kheirkhah M, Behboodi Moghadam Z, Fanaei H, Kasaeian A, Javadimehr M. Effect of treatment with ginger on the severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms. This starter pack is exactly what every woman needs to bring her hormones back into balance! It is not as same as having actual flu. What is Period Flu? And How To Treat it Without the Regular Use of If you notice this, get help right away or head to the nearest hospital. It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. Early symptoms of pregnancy and PMS cause many of the same symptoms, like nausea, bloating, fatigue, and breast swelling and tenderness. Above all, be gentle with yourself. 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. A root cause approach considers why you have these symptoms in the first place instead of only addressing the symptoms. Some people experience period flu symptoms in the days just before their period that are part of whats called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 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. If you are concerned that you have it, you should see a doctor or your OB/GYN to see what. Try heat therapy. In fact, more than 100 symptoms have been linked to PMS. The prostaglandins cause an inflammatory response in the body and this is why people feel flu-like." But what does that mean? Changing hormones influence your brain chemistry, causing serotonin levels to fluctuate. This shift is part of why you have PMS, so it makes sense that it would also be a cause for period flu. She's written for many online publications, including Health, Prevention, Women's Health, What To Expect, and Apartment Therapy. By breaking up blood and fluid in the pelvic region, heat reduces swelling that may compress nerves and cause pelvic pain. For example, you can take a tablet every six hours as needed. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start . When it comes to the effectiveness of herbal supplements for treating period-related symptoms, there is limited scientific research available. For some . 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. Should You Eat Based On Your Menstrual Cycle? In turn, those products may relieve period flu symptoms. Its a bacterial infection that causes flu-like symptoms along with a fever that spikes over 102 F and a rash that looks like a sunburn or red dots on your skin. This is because the pill prevents ovulation, which in turn helps to keep your hormone levels steady. Unfortunately, high levels of prostaglandins can lead to severe pain and discomfort -enter the Period Flu. Ask your doctor to figure out the best choice for you. Ultimately, the period flu can be miserable. Lifestyle changes that support your hormones, blood sugar balance, and inflammation can go a long way to helping you feel better. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. "So that precipitous decline, particularly in estrogen, is what causes a lot of the symptoms.". Read More Intrigued? Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. Prostaglandins: Functions and Purpose - Healthgrades Period flu isn't a medical term;. A "Period-Flu" Is A Real Thing & Here's How To Know If You Have It 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. Period Flu: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and More - Health

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