To diagnose PMS and PMDD, healthcare providers ask about your symptoms, when they occur during your menstrual cycle, and their effect on your life. Below, doctors weigh in on this period phenomenon and how to Get. The prostaglandins cause an inflammatory response in the body and this is why people feel flu-like." But what does that mean? Youre not alone. In actuality, the "period flu" is not a real medical condition. 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. When the endometrial cells lining the uterus begin to shed, these . 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. 2016;3(1):25-27. doi:10.1080/23328940.2015.1130520. Reed B.G, Carr B.R. And it has nothing to do with the actual flu, so theres that. Period flu symptoms can make it hard to function, but there are several things you can do for relief. Lastly, healthcare providers may take a blood sample to test for other possible health conditions with similar symptoms. Drinking water, tea, or broth can help replace the loss of fluid and electrolytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Office on Women's Health. 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. 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. Ovulation can also increase your core body temperature (basal body temperature) for a couple of days. The good news: Youre not crazy or alone period flu is definitely a thing, based on anecdotal evidence. So its not surprising that an oncoming period would feel similar to an illness. The first day of your period is day one of your menstrual cycle. "Birth control works because it stabilizes your hormones, so you don't have that LH surge or drop in progesterone levels. Endometriosisis a condition in which endometrial tissue, the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus. Ahead, everything you need to know about period flu, including causes, symptoms, and how to find relief from the monthly malaise. Period flu is a collection of symptoms that manifest in many women right before they begin flowing. 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. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? So that's definitely something you want to keep in mind. Unfortunately, high levels of prostaglandins can lead to severe pain and discomfort -enter the Period Flu. Before your period, their levels increase and can cause an inflammatory response. Dizziness. Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Try to rest when you can. For some . Occasional fluctuations in your menstrual symptoms, flow, and overall duration usually arent cause for concern. Vaghela N, Mishra D, Sheth M, Dani VB. When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. Do you feel nauseous, dizzy, or bogged down by headaches as if you have the flu right around the time of your period? 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. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. Your doctor will tell you the best treatments for these. 2020;17(3):988. doi:10.3390/ijerph17030988. 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. They can also help to rule out the possibility that something else might be going on, like an actual infectious illness. 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. What Is "Period Flu"? How Hormonal Changes Can Make You Feel Sick - Allure Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: February 11, 2022Last Reviewed: February 12, 2022 Period Leave a Comment. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Here are some ways you can find relief for your period flu symptoms. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. The main thing to recognize is that these symptoms occur at the same time every month and improve or disappear once your period comes. he Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. Period problems, solved: Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. The symptoms of PMS vary from person to person. Period flu symptoms are similar to PMS and start after ovulation and before your period. By breaking up blood and fluid in the pelvic region, heat reduces swelling that may compress nerves and cause pelvic pain. 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 cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, progesterone might affect neurotransmitters, serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). 2018;50(2):116-121. doi:10.5152/eurasianjmed.2018.0010. We use cookie to improve your experience. Armour M, Ee CC, Naidoo D, Ayati Z, Chalmers KJ, Steel KA, de Manincor MJ, Delshad E. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. And the symptoms will generally occur on a monthly basis. 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. Period Flu: Signs, Causes, and Treatment - Oli And Alex Efficacy of physiotherapy treatment in primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Use birth control pills. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. . Studies also point to the positive effects of consuming increased amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 on premenstrual symptoms. Your hormones shift dramatically between ovulation and your period, as you saw above. Bernstein MT, Graff LA, Avery L, et al. Hormonal birth control can also help ease pain and thin your uterine lining to lower prostaglandin production. Although there's no cure, you can treat symptoms at home. But putting it all together isn't always easy. But after a few days of your period, prostaglandin levels decrease so your period flu pain (should) subside. Here's everything you need to know about period fluHelloGiggles PMS, as its usually known, is the collection of physical and emotional annoyances that can occur shortly before your period is due. When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in your gut (hence the diarrhea and gas). They also elevate when you have an actual infection and can help explain why you may have a low-grade fever. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. Prostaglandins: What They Are and Their Role in the Body - Healthline In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. Some people will experience these flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to their period, while others will experience them the. Due to limited medical research, it is not possible to receive an official diagnosis for period flu. Still, healthcare providers may use the same tools that usually diagnose PMS and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Dull, continuous ache. Consult with your healthcare provider for options. o compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. Factors associated with menstrual cycle irregularity and menopause. In other words, theres no period flu diagnosis you could get from a doctor. I would call it overall malaise, which is how people generally feel around the flu, so it would make sense that people call it the 'period flu.'". (2018). For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. These hormones help your uterine lining shed and cause cramps. You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. Staying hydrated; exercising; eating healthy foods, like whole grains and vegetables; and getting enough sleep are key. You can treat symptoms at home with hormone therapy, pain relievers, and lifestyle changes, among others. Here's a brief reminder of how your menstrual cycle works: Period flu is often categorized as part of PMS because the symptoms can be similar. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that affect several bodily functions, including inflammation, pain and uterine contractions. Period Flu: What Is It? - WebMD Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z, Lpez-Liria R, Torres-lamo L, Vega-Ramrez FA, et al. Here's Why You Always Feel Sick During Your Period - Brit - Co 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. Why is my menstrual cycle getting shorter? For example, chaste tree extracts, 1,0001,200 milligrams of calcium, or 50100 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily may reduce symptoms. 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? Still, keep in mind that the research on whether those methods work is inconclusive. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. 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). 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. The best way to figure out whats happening here isagaintake a test. Theyre also designed to cut down prostaglandin production. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. In fact, more than 100 symptoms have been linked to PMS. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. For more information, see our. Symptoms can include extremely painful periods, pain during sex, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and painful bowel movements. The best way to understand how long the symptoms last for you is to keep track of your symptoms. 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. Healthcare providers use synthetic forms of prostaglandins to treat several conditions. If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. They are contagious and you will need to take steps to limit the spread. When the levels of prostaglandins are high, they can cause cramping and pain. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Some people feel pain thats more sharp.. 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. Gunaydin C, Bilge SS. Always speak with your doctor first before taking diuretics, as they may not be appropriate to take alongside other medications. 2014;14:14. doi:10.1186/1472-6874-14-14, Conti B. Prostaglandin E2 that triggers fever is synthesized through an endocannabinoid- dependent pathway. If you have a period, you probably experience some discomfort and pain around your time of the month, which is totally normal. There are several treatments for the period flu and general PMS symptoms, including medications, herbal supplements, lifestyle changes, and heat. When menstruation begins, both Dr. Dweck and Dr. Minkin generally see their patients' symptoms dissipate. This is especially true if you are currently taking birth control bills, as certain supplements may reduce their effectiveness. 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. 'Period Flu' Symptoms & Treatments - The Honey Pot And if your hormones are already out of balance, as seen with estrogen dominance, this can only make things worse. If you are concerned that you have it, you should see a doctor or your OB/GYN to see what. Your immune system activates antibodies and other chemicals like prostaglandin to destroy the virus or bacteria. 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. A common alternative option is hormonal contraceptives, such as: Hormonal contraceptives are low risk and can be tried and stopped if you dont like them, says Villarreal. 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. Low-grade fever, chills or sweats. Generally, the period flu is nothing to worry about. Sadr SS, Samimi Ardestani SM, Razjouyan K, et al. Luckily, "period flu" is a lot easier to treat than the real one. From preventing bloating, aiding digestion, and boosting energy levels, water will be your best friend both before and during 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. It's common for women to experience flu-like symptoms and even a fever between ovulation and the start of their period. Research has found that heat therapy can alleviate pelvic pain by relaxing tense muscles. A quick look at the research reveals that there isn't much information about period flu (were not too shocked right?). Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. As you get your period, prostaglandins are released. Many doctors consider period flu as an exaggerated form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) due to the severity of its symptoms. Prostaglandins stimulate the contracting and relaxing of the muscles of the digestive tract, which is why your period can cause changes in your bowels. In turn, those products may relieve period flu symptoms. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Progesterone is another hormone that increases right before a menstrual period. Nausea. This can cause fatigue, cramps, and mood swings. These symptoms all point to the common flu illnesses you know. 2800 N 6th St Unit 1 PMB 953 Saint Augustine FL 32084, Get Your FREE Hormone Starter Kit with7 Day Meal Plan & Recipe Guide. Some people will only note mild intermittent cramping that can feel like throbbing or dull, intermittent pain, says Villarreal. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Temperature (Austin). This includes going outside for some fresh air, sipping water throughout the day, and avoiding spicy or high-fat foods. What is period flu? If youre suffering from period flu symptoms, its important to get sufficient rest to help alleviate those symptoms. This also reduces muscle contraction. 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. At this time, levels of the hormone progesterone increase to help prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy. The role of prostaglandins during your period. 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. If you struggle to control pain and inflammation, it may also be worth following an anti-inflammatory diet in the days or weeks leading up to your period. "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. We avoid using tertiary references. 2014;8(4):74-79. 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. What Causes Gas Before My Period and What Can I Do About It? 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. Primary dysmenorrhea is when chemicals in the lining of your uterus, called prostaglandins, cause uterine cramping. For others, these symptoms may begin after they ovulate. High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. PMS is pretty common, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. Period flu isn't a medical term;. Certain lifestyle changes and therapies can also help you prevent or at least minimize future symptoms. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhoea. 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. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. So, in general, while you might feel icky, you'll be totally fine in a few days. 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. 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. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with your period. In general, taking steps to treat your symptoms and reduce their severity can help alleviate any discomfort. 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. 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. Intrigued? This process can cause inflammation resulting in pain and feeling feverish. Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in healthy women. (Prostaglandins are fatty acids that look like hormones that . mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780, womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome. 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. She has a masters degree in journalism from Syracuse University, lives in Brooklyn, and proudly detests avocados. Experts believe that changes in the levels of certain chemicals in your body during or before your period have a link to premenstrual symptoms. A study published in 2016 found that prostaglandins can affect neurons in the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. Keep it simple by examining your sleep environment (too hot or loud?) 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. Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. Prostaglandins: What It Is, Function & Side Effects - Cleveland Clinic Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. 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. Appointments 216.444.6568. 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. Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor, covering health, parenting, and wellness. As the name indicates, period flu symptoms mimic the real flu but are tied into your menstrual cycle and aren't contagious. In fact, the influenza virus, which causes the contagious respiratory illness, doesn't actually cause the period flu. With a few lifestyle changes to address inflammation and hormone balance, you can take charge of your health and feel like yourself again. How Prostaglandins Cause Painful Periods + What to Do About It If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. may occur because the immune system is reacting to higher levels of prostaglandinshormone-like substances present . Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. When your PMS symptoms feel like the flu, and your actual period somehow feels worse its time for a change. 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. "But if your symptoms are alleviated with your period or if they are cyclic in nature, then it's less concerning.". There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. 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.
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