Everyone has heard of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the constellation of physical and mental symptoms that happens when you are about to get your period. This can be done by simply logging in how you feel in a notebook or in a period tracking app. What is period flu? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Appointments 216.444.6568. If you are not trying to conceive (TTC), taking a hormonal contraceptive (i.e. Low-grade fever, chills or sweats. 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 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. 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. Above all, be gentle with yourself. If you notice this, get help right away or head to the nearest hospital. Treatments for period flu are similar to those for PMS. Period flu symptoms are similar tobut more severe thanpremenstrual syndrome (PMS). 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. your wind-down routine (hello screens and cell phones), and anything else that could be interfering. o compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. 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. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. I'm not saying you can't drink occasionally, but if it's become a part of your daily routine and you are struggling with not feeling well, it's time to look at how much you are drinking. 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. Before chalking up your symptoms to period flu, consider whether there might be something else going on. Weakness. 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. If you get periods, you know about pre-menstrual syndrome. Elevations in progesterone followed by steep declines can also impact neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that affect your mood and energy levels. Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. Period flu symptoms are similar to PMS and start after ovulation and before your period. 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. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. So what's really going on with your body? Prostaglandins cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract. Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. (Gentle reminder: You need a flu shot to prevent that.) When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. 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. This includes extreme irritability, anger, sadness, anxiety, panic, and even suicidal thoughts. You may even notice PMS symptoms as early as two weeks after the first day of your last period. And another study on young women with PMS found that supplementing with calcium for three months improved fatigue, appetite, and mood changes. 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. You may feel like your body is fighting off a virus when it isn't. 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. Below, doctors weigh in on this period phenomenon and how to Get. Your doctor will tell you the best treatments for these. 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. 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. These flu-like feelings are similar to or overlap with a group of symptoms doctor call dysmenorrhea (painful periods) or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). That process can cause some unpleasant symptoms, like diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and general achiness. 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. See additional information. Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tea may also help. It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. (2018). Many doctors consider period flu as an exaggerated form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) due to the severity of its symptoms. If your symptoms arent too bad, consider taking an over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen. The role of prostaglandins during your period. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, How to Regulate Your Periods: 20 Tips and Tricks, Know Your Flow: How Periods Change as You Get Older, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, PMS: Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms, Treatments, and More. The causes aren't certain, but since symptoms coincide with cycle timing, the most likely explanation is hormone fluctuations. Crying and feeling sad or anxious before or during your period is fairly normal, and likely due to fluctuating hormones. In fact, more than 100 symptoms have been linked to PMS. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. 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. Take them as soon as you start bleeding or whenever you begin to have cramps. But for some people, that time of the month can include symptoms that feel like an actual illness. Loose stools. 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. Are some women more prone to the period flu than others? Still, keep in mind that the research on whether those methods work is inconclusive. 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. Dysmenorrhea, the correct term for painful periods, can be treated with the help of your doctor. Dull, continuous ache. Factors associated with menstrual cycle irregularity and menopause. Fernndez MDM, Saulyte J, Inskip HM. Treatments for Period Flu. The influenza virus that causes the flu is not the same as the period flu. Hormonal birth control can also help ease pain and thin your uterine lining to lower prostaglandin production. Exercise is another powerful home remedy for relieving period-related symptoms. You might have spotting before your period due to changes in medication, pregnancy, infection, or another underlying condition. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. Period symptoms you shouldnt ignore include: While its not recognized as an official diagnosis, the period flu appears to be very real for some people. 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 . Period flu causes. This can cause fatigue, cramps, and mood swings. According to Dr Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." . Experts believe that changes in the levels of certain chemicals in your body during or before your period have a link to premenstrual symptoms. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. (called prostaglandins), may enhance flu-like symptoms in some women. Try to rest when you can. Some. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. 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. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this web site. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Women who are on birth control don't notice any major changes during their period. 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.. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. Here are some ways you can find relief for your period flu symptoms. Headaches. Research has found that heat therapy can alleviate pelvic pain by relaxing tense muscles. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. For others, it only lasts a few days before or during their period. Also, if you one of your period flu symptoms is diarrhea, this can lead to dehydration, so make sure you're getting enough H2O throughout the day, says Dr. Greves. These results were from a small study, and the women took the supplements for three cycles. Several medicines may treat period flu symptoms. Her work has been featured in the New York Post, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, Bustle, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated, Elle, and ABC News. Why Bad Period Symptoms Can Feel Like the Flu. Prostaglandins and Period Flu Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that up-regulate inflammation in the body. A turmeric supplement, such as Garden of Life's MyKind Organics, Extra Strength Turmeric (Available at Walmart) after first okay-ing it with your doctor or pain medication, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help ease cramps and lower back pain, adds Dr. Shirazian. 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. And if your hormones are already out of balance, as seen with estrogen dominance, this can only make things worse. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. National Library of Medicine. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. National Library of Medicine. Prostaglandins aren't actually hormones, but they're like hormones. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. This content is imported from poll. The feelings of malaise and pain may kick in just before or at the time you start your period each month. The most important thing is that if you are suffering, there are many treatments ranging in types, risks and benefits, so talk to your provider candidly if you are struggling, says Villarreal. Int J Environ Res Public Health. You are not alone. Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. Unfortunately, high levels of prostaglandins can lead to severe pain and discomfort -enter the Period Flu. And it has nothing to do with the actual flu, so theres that. They also elevate when you have an actual infection and can help explain why you may have a low-grade fever. 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. Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. Bae J, et al. 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. 2020;17(3):988. doi:10.3390/ijerph17030988. . Eurasian J Med. Once your period starts, gauge your symptoms to see if you need to continue to take them. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. For others, these symptoms may begin after they ovulate. She is a member of the MindBodyGreen Collective and a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is pain from a disorder in your reproductive organs. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. Is there a cure for period flu? Otherwise, doctors arent entirely sure what exactly causes these symptoms. For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. Ahead, everything you need to know about period flu, including causes, symptoms, and how to find relief from the monthly malaise.
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