There are a few potential hacks you can try, according to womens health expert Jennifer Wider, MD. Heres Why, 8 Tips to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis From Recurring, Your Go-To Household Items Could Be Polluting Your Home. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Bernstein MT, Graff LA, Avery L, et al. Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. The wild ride caused by hormones can vary greatly from one person to another. (called prostaglandins), may enhance flu-like symptoms in some women. For others, it only lasts a few days before or during their period. Menstrual Disc 101: How to Use One and Who Theyre For. In fact, the influenza virus, which causes the contagious respiratory illness, doesn't actually cause the period flu. It can also lead to headaches. Some people will only note mild intermittent cramping that can feel like throbbing or dull, intermittent pain, says Villarreal. Flu-like Symptoms Before Your Period | The Lowdown Healthcare providers use synthetic forms of prostaglandins to treat several conditions. Prostaglandins: What It Is, Function & Side Effects - Cleveland Clinic So what's really going on with your body? The period flu mimics symptoms of the flusuch as headache, sore throat, and muscle achesnear your period. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. Is Antihistamine Use Making Me Gain Weight? U by Kotex partner Dr. Molly O-Shea tells Elite Daily you can keep prostaglandins from doing you dirty by "taking ibuprofen three times a day for the few days prior to your period." This won't. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Prostaglandins aren't actually hormones, but they're like hormones. National Library of Medicine. 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. A study published in 2016 found that prostaglandins can affect neurons in the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. Why is my menstrual cycle getting shorter? These chills may also be accompanied by headaches, bloating, cramping, nausea, and feeling feverish. It keeps everything constant," explains Dr. Shirazian. And it has nothing to do with the actual flu, so theres that. Progesterone also has an anti-inflammation effect, so when it starts to fall, it also ramps up the release of inflammatory compounds that can cause pain and discomfort. Prostaglandins are also responsible for period poops (yes, that uptick in bowel movements is real, and you aren't alone if you have them) and menstrual cramps. Like PMS, period flu symptoms can look different for everyone. Thus, the name. 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. 2018;50(2):116-121. doi:10.5152/eurasianjmed.2018.0010. The best way to combat the chills includes drinking plenty of water, eating regular nutritious meals, and keeping your body moving with regular exercise. The feelings of malaise and pain may kick in just before or at the time you start your period each month. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Period flu symptoms are similar tobut more severe thanpremenstrual syndrome (PMS). 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. Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at the molecular level. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. Instead, the goal is to treat your symptoms. Period Flu: It's RealSymptoms, Causes, Treatments - The Healthy Period Flu: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | YourTango Those include things like abdominal cramps, headache, tender breasts, and changes, Although PMDD shares many of the same symptoms as PMS, they're usually more severe. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Treatments for period flu are similar to those for PMS. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z, Lpez-Liria R, Torres-lamo L, Vega-Ramrez FA, et al. Periods arent gross or shameful. If you dont use a hormonal method, starting one could help to tame some of your symptoms. Period Flu: What Is It? - WebMD Ask your doctor to figure out the best choice for you. "All of these symptoms can be [due to] lots of things. Here's everything you need to know about period fluHelloGiggles Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. The pain may range from mild to severe, but it usually goes away with 1-3 days. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. "For the body aches and cramping, over the counter medication such as ibuprofen or . So that's definitely something you want to keep in mind. Before chalking up your symptoms to period flu, consider whether there might be something else going on. A quick look at the research reveals that there isn't much information about period flu (were not too shocked right?). 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. Office on Women's Health. Learn more about why it happens and how to manage symptoms. StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), these antidepressants are often used in patients with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). When the premenstrual syndrome symptoms become worse, it may feel as though one is actually sick. Premenstrual syndrome and alcohol consumption: a systematic review and meta-analysis. '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. Estrogen levels also dip or change rapidly around this time. Some people can develop symptoms such as pelvic cramping, nausea, fatigue and malaise around the time of their period, says Dr. Sarah Villarreal, an OB-GYN at the Womens Health Care Center at UW Medical Center Roosevelt. Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. The effects of these diet and lifestyle changes right before your period can mimic flu like symptoms too. Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor, covering health, parenting, and wellness. Your period marks the beginning of your follicular phase, which is when your body gets ready to release an egg from your ovary. Gunaydin C, Bilge SS. It can be a little tricky, Dr. Wider says. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. When this happens, your body temperature goes up. 2014;8(4):74-79. Other evidence suggests that massage therapy may relieve pelvic pain, as well. Fun, right? How can your period affect bowel movements? - Medical News Today Why Bad Period Symptoms Can Feel Like the Flu. While "period flu" is not a formal medical term or diagnosis, Alyssa Dweck, MD, a practicing gynecologist in Westchester County, New York and host of the podcast Business of the V, knows exactly what I'm talking about. Teatero ML, Mazmanian D, Sharma V. Effects of the menstrual cycle on bipolar disorder. So lace up your sneakers and head out for a walk, do some yoga, or lift some heavy weights whatever works for you. Symptoms that have been called period flu include: Some people also report an elevated temperature, runny nose, or sore throat. In one online discussion of period flu, a person said that their symptoms turned out to be due to an allergy to acetaminophen (Tylenol), a common painkiller people often take to ease period symptoms. Prostaglandins and Period Flu Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that up-regulate inflammation in the body. Dysmenorrhea, the correct term for painful periods, can be treated with the help of your doctor. Studies also point to the positive effects of consuming increased amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 on premenstrual symptoms. . Period Flu Might Be Why You Feel So Crappy Right Before Your Period, How Gynecologists Soothe Their Own Period Cramps. As estrogen decreases between ovulation and the start of your period, prostaglandins increase. 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. National Library of Medicine. 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. 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. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. 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. Period Flu: Why You Feel Sick Before Your Period, From MDs - mindbodygreen Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. DOI: Dennerstein L, et al. It's natural to have an uptick in inflammation during your period because prostaglandins are inflammatory hormones. 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. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Still, healthcare providers may use the same tools that usually diagnose PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Take pain relievers. Try heat therapy. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that affect several bodily functions, including inflammation, pain and uterine contractions. Low-grade fever, chills or sweats. Flu symptoms & complications. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. The duration of period flu or flu-like symptoms around your period can vary among individuals. Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that up-regulate inflammation in the body. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is another condition associated with periods and PMS, but its main feature is changes in mood. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. Changing hormones influence your brain chemistry, causing serotonin levels to fluctuate. Jehan S, Auguste E, Hussain M, Pandi-Perumal SR, Brzezinski A, Gupta R, Attarian H, Jean-Louis G, McFarlane SI. What Is Period Flu? Int J Environ Res Public Health. Is Your Heavy Period a Sign of Something Serious? Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. may occur because the immune system is reacting to higher levels of prostaglandinshormone-like substances present . Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, progesterone might affect neurotransmitters, serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). 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. When the endometrial cells lining the uterus begin to shed, these . Others feel lousy throughout their 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. Diarrhea during your period is a sign that you have too many prostaglandins. According to Dr Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." . 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. 2014;16(1):22-36. doi:10.1111/bdi.12138, Yen JY, Lin PC, Huang MF, et al. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. Lifestyle changes that support your hormones, blood sugar balance, and inflammation can go a long way to helping you feel better. This blocks the formation of prostaglandins, thus reducing symptoms, but the catch is that you need to take it before things get bad. This can improve blood flow and give you some relief. Fortunately, you don't have to live in agony when that time of the month rolls around. 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. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Nausea. Changing hormone levels are the likely culprit of period flu symptoms. Information provided on this web site DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our web site. And you may have increased water retention, which could lead to joint pain, Dr. Dweck says. Some women with underlying conditions, like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can experience more pronounced PMS symptoms than others, but they're not specific to the 'period flu,'" explains Dr. Shirazian. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. Several medicines may treat period flu symptoms. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. There are ways you can support 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 are at their highest on day one of your period, which can lead to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. the egg is not fertilized), your estrogen, progesterone, and LH levels drop, and you start to shed the lining of your uterus as your period begins. 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. Period flu causes. If your symptoms arent too bad, consider taking an over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen. Not to further complicate things, but symptoms of early pregnancy can also be similar to symptoms of period flu, Dr. Wider says. In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. The impact of low progesterone levels on neurotransmitters (such as serotonin). Treatments for Period Flu. "Birth control works because it stabilizes your hormones, so you don't have that LH surge or drop in progesterone levels. Are some women more prone to the period flu than others? She is a member of the MindBodyGreen Collective and a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. We may earn a commission from links on this page. Dr. Brighten is an international speaker, clinical educator, medical advisor within the tech community, and considered a leading authority on womens health. You may feel like your body is fighting off a virus when it isn't. This web site offers health, wellness, fitness and nutritional information and is provided for informational purposes only. Above all, be gentle with yourself. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. 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. 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. Period Flu: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments - Best Health This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. Your doctor will tell you the best treatments for these. This usually happens around 10-16 days before you start your period, depending on your menstrual cycle. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the start of your period. Prostaglandins and Period Flu . One reason for these symptoms is that prostaglandins are high just before and at the start of your period. (2018). There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. 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. The period flu is obviously not caused by a virus, but some of the symptoms can mimic COVID-19, including fatigue, lethargy, headaches, and gastrointestinal upset or changes in bowel habits, she says. Already. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. 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. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that trigger the uterine muscles to contract. It is in no way related to influenza; however, it is a real phenomenon and the term period flu is simply used to describe what the symptoms feel like. The good news: Youre not crazy or alone period flu is definitely a thing, based on anecdotal evidence. 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. 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. 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. Continue for about 15 minutes. Generally, the period flu is nothing to worry about. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhoea. Relief. You're probably already aware of a few positive diet changes you could make. "Prostaglandins can cause intestinal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a feeling of being flushed, and general achiness." . As you get your period, prostaglandins are released. They can also help to rule out the possibility that something else might be going on, like an actual infectious illness. A variety of symptoms, like the kind of fatigue that happens when you get the real flu, may ensue as a result. 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. Featuring a 28 day plan to take back your cycle and dozens of charts, checklists, and diagrams to help along the way. These results were from a small study, and the women took the supplements for three cycles. As with PMS, hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others, can reduce and prevent period flu symptoms. 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. Some evidence suggests that herbs and supplements may relieve PMS symptoms. (2011). Some people experience period flu symptoms in the days just before their period that are part of whats called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Every body and every person is different, Villarreal says. Adenomyosis is a condition in which the endometrial tissue grows inside the muscular wall of the uterus, where it functions the same as it would inside the uterus thickening, breaking down and bleeding each menstrual cycle. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. 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. Crying and feeling sad or anxious before or during your period is fairly normal, and likely due to fluctuating hormones. What Is Period Flu? Here's Why You Might Feel Sick Right - Bustle And if your hormones are already out of balance, as seen with estrogen dominance, this can only make things worse. Increased progesterone. What Are Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder? Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. Ovulation can also increase your core body temperature (basal body temperature) for a couple of days. In addition to this shift in hormones, the increased levels of prostaglandins can result in some women experiencing these exaggerated PMS symptoms, notes Dr. Greves. This drop in progesterone can affect certain neurotransmitters in your brain, like serotonin, which then leads to mood swings, increased feelings of fatigue, and sleep disruptions. To diagnose PMS and PMDD, healthcare providers ask about your symptoms, when they occur during your menstrual cycle, and their effect on your life. Some other symptoms of period flu, include body aches or joint pain, fever-like chills that might not involve an actual fever, dizziness and breast tenderness. Period flu symptoms can make it hard to function, but there are several things you can do for relief. 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. When menstruation begins, both Dr. Dweck and Dr. Minkin generally see their patients' symptoms dissipate. Some women also have: Nausea. If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. Just practice safety methods while you wait for the results, like wearing a mask when youre around others and social distancing. In fact, more than 100 symptoms have been linked to PMS. Symptoms of menstrual cramps include: Throbbing or cramping pain in your lower abdomen that can be intense. 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. See additional information. If you get periods, you know about pre-menstrual syndrome. 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. They are contagious and you will need to take steps to limit the spread. Another thing to discuss with your doctor is whether a change in birth control could help. Flu Like Symptoms Before Period - Medical Treasure Period Flu - Why Hormones Make You Feel Sick Before Your Period 2021;18(15):7832. doi:10.3390/ijerph18157832. While there are some over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, those might not touch your pain if youre struggling with severe symptoms. And period flu's symptoms (many of which are the same as those of PMS) normally ease off a few days after your period starts, says Christine Greves, M.D., board-certified ob-gyn at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, Florida. This starter pack is exactly what every woman needs to bring her hormones back into balance! If you notice flu-like symptoms every month at the same time during your menstrual cycle, it's time to take a closer look. On the first day of a period, the level of prostaglandins is high. Staying hydrated; exercising; eating healthy foods, like whole grains and vegetables; and getting enough sleep are key. Her work has been featured in the New York Post, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, Bustle, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated, Elle, and ABC News. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar 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. Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life.
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