They can do a proper workup and help you feel A-okay when your period comes your way. 2021;18(15):7832. doi:10.3390/ijerph18157832. 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). When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. When it comes to the effectiveness of herbal supplements for treating period-related symptoms, there is limited scientific research available. If you think you might be pregnant, the best way to distinguish between the two is with a pregnancy test, Dr. Wider says. 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. But if it happens regularly around your period, its likely what experts often refer to as the period flu.. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Take pain relievers. (Theyre even available at your local drugstore now!) They may run some tests to rule out other medical issues that may be causing these symptoms. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Period flu is not a legit medical term but it refers to the sick feeling most females get at the time of arrival of periods. They're fatty acids that collect in the uterus and help shed its lining during your period. In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. 2020;17(3):988. doi:10.3390/ijerph17030988. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This blocks the formation of prostaglandins, thus reducing symptoms, but the catch is that you need to take it before things get bad. 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. 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. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Sometimes, they also cause contractions in your intestines, which can cause a range of GI symptoms, including diarrhea.. For instance, you might up your sugar and salty snack intake, which can cause swelling and inflammation, she explains. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. Your menstrual cycle. Increased progesterone. They also elevate when you have an actual infection and can help explain why you may have a low-grade fever. 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 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. Period flu is . For example, chaste tree extracts, 1,0001,200 milligrams of calcium, or 50100 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily may reduce symptoms. Prostaglandins are fatty acids in the body that help during an injury and illness by turning certain processes "on" or "off.". Period Flu: What Is It? - WebMD Factors associated with menstrual cycle irregularity and menopause. 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. 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. Certain lifestyle changes and therapies can also help you prevent or at least minimize future symptoms. Once your period starts, dysmenorrheacan cause headaches, diarrhea and a general feeling of malaise. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. What is period flu? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), these antidepressants are often used in patients with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. Why Is It So Hard for Black Women to Get Diagnosed with Endometriosis? It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Start taking the smallest dose (~200 mg) possible of NSAIDs (e.g. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. So what's really going on with your body? What's more, body temperature naturally increases during ovulation. All rights reserved. KEEPING IT REAL, WHILE KEEPING YOU EDUCATED. So lace up your sneakers and head out for a walk, do some yoga, or lift some heavy weights whatever works for you. Prostaglandins can cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping are often associated with fluctuations in progesterone and decreased levels of melatonin during the menstrual cycle. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Prostaglandins: What They Are and Their Role in the Body - Healthline Always speak with your doctor first before taking diuretics, as they may not be appropriate to take alongside other medications. Prostaglandins. For example, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work wonders for managing pain and inflammation around the time of your period. (2018). Along with offering treatment options, a healthcare provider may check to make sure there isn't another issue like the flu, chronic fatigue syndrome, or depression. These molecules bind with receptors in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls your bodys temperature. Be sure to take the medication with food to avoid a stomach ache and, worse, ulcers. Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that up-regulate inflammation in the body. These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in your gut (hence the diarrhea and gas). Premenstrual Syndrome: Overview. "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. This includes extreme irritability, anger, sadness, anxiety, panic, and even suicidal thoughts. These pills are designed to ease bloating and reduce the build-up of fluid in your body, which are symptoms that many individuals struggle with around their period. There are other hormones at play, of course. . Gunaydin C, Bilge SS. Looking at the underlying root causes, such as hormone imbalances or inflammation, is vital for taking charge of symptoms. 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! mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780, womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome. Women who are on birth control don't notice any major changes during their period. You might have spotting before your period due to changes in medication, pregnancy, infection, or another underlying condition. 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. National Library of Medicine. If youve got nausea, chills, and weakness, and you dont normally have those before your period, its entirely possible that you have the actual flu (or COVID, or a stomach bug, or something else.). A study published in 2016 found that prostaglandins can affect neurons in the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice new or changing breast lumps or nipple discharge. Association between generalized anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder in a diagnostic interviewing study. Already. It can also lead to headaches. Although its not an official medical term or related to influenza, learn how to get relief if you suffer from this premenstrual phenomenon. Weakness. Others feel lousy throughout their period. How Young Is Too Young to Get Parkinson's Disease? Period Flu | Causes | Symptoms | Ways to Get Relief From Period Flu Read More A study in BMC Womens Health found that Increased hydration is associated with a reduction in pain for those suffering from dysmenorrhea. These aren't the only strange symptoms you might notice before your period. The good news: Youre not crazy or alone period flu is definitely a thing, based on anecdotal evidence. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. 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 main thing to recognize is that these symptoms occur at the same time every month and improve or disappear once your period comes. These chills may also be accompanied by headaches, bloating, cramping, nausea, and feeling feverish. In the case of the period flu, prostaglandins are to blame. For others, these symptoms may begin after they ovulate. Periods arent gross or shameful. 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,. 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. 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. What Are Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder? Doctors dont clearly understand what causes these symptoms, but hormonal changes during this time may have a role to play. However, an overproduction of prostaglandins exacerbates the body's inflammatory response, explains Dr. Gersh, and that's not great when it comes to PMS. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. What Is Period Flu? Here's Why You Might Feel Sick Right - Bustle So you can just blame the hormonal rollercoaster that is PMS until there's more conclusive science on this. This content is imported from poll. Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. Get a massage. the pill) is another option for relieving flu-like symptoms around your period. Loose stools. Jo J, Lee SH. 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. Period flu is not an official medical diagnosis, so there is no specific set of symptoms. Try heat therapy. Do you feel nauseous, dizzy, or bogged down by headaches as if you have the flu right around the time of your period? They are contagious and you will need to take steps to limit the spread. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. While not technically a medical term and less well-understood than PMS, period flu is real to many women. "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. Its possible to get treatment for severe period symptoms. Period flu isn't something you should have to deal with as part of menstruation. Heres what to know. Her advice: In other words, is period fludangerous? This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. The tissue that lines the inside of the uterus sheds when the uterine muscles tighten. A quick look at the research reveals that there isn't much information about period flu (were not too shocked right?). Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. (Just before ovulation, levels of the hormone estrogen are also at their highest.) High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Studies also point to the positive effects of consuming increased amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 on premenstrual symptoms. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. Prostaglandins also cause strong muscle contractions in the uterus that lead to pain, discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea among some women. The thought of getting Parkinsons when youre young can be scary. 'Period Flu' Symptoms & Treatments - The Honey Pot Generally, the "period flu" isn't something you should worry about too much, especially if you're noticing a monthly pattern with your symptoms. Flu symptoms & complications. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. "This drop in the hormone LH and progesterone causes some women to feel a whole host of symptoms," says Dr. Shirazian. 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. PMS, as its usually known, is the collection of physical and emotional annoyances that can occur shortly before your period is due. Of course, if your period flu significantly impacts your day-to-day routine, and you must miss school or work consistently, it's a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to help you feel better fast. 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. What Is 'Period Flu?' Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments - Shape Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. For people with primary dysmenorrhea, NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can help treat the pain. She's written for many online publications, including Health, Prevention, Women's Health, What To Expect, and Apartment Therapy. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Some of her clients' most common PMS complaints are all reminiscent of flu symptoms, including irritability, breast soreness, headaches, joint pain, and excessive fatigue. 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. In addition to decreasing progesterone levels, another potential cause of flu-like symptoms around your period is the impact of prostaglandins. The pain may range from mild to severe, but it usually goes away with 1-3 days. Relief. This shift is part of why you have PMS, so it makes sense that it would also be a cause for period flu. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. "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. Gudipally PR, Sharma GK. Still, healthcare providers may use the same tools that usually diagnose PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. The bad news: Its still poorly understood and not always acknowledged in the medical community. What is Period Flu? And How To Treat it Without the Regular Use of It can be a little tricky, Dr. Wider says. And the symptoms will generally occur on a monthly basis. 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. Can Your Period Cause a Fever: Period Flu - Doctor Health In fact, one study found that just 8 weeks of regular exercise could help to reduce symptoms of PMS. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Then comes the luteal phase, when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Period flu symptoms can make it hard to function, but there are several things you can do for relief. If you regularly have flu-like symptoms around the time of your period and its affecting your quality of life, check in with your OB/GYN, a doctor who specializes in womens health, or your primary care doctor. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. "Birth control works because it stabilizes your hormones, so you don't have that LH surge or drop in progesterone levels.
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