Villarreal says that for some, their pain might be bad enough to need medication to manage it. Take pain relievers. At UW Medicine, our mission is to improve the health of the public. Learn when to get help. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is another condition associated with periods and PMS, but its main feature is changes in mood. 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. It keeps everything constant," explains Dr. Shirazian. 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 . You may even notice PMS symptoms as early as two weeks after the first day of your last period. (Prostaglandins are fatty acids that look like hormones that . DOI: Dennerstein L, et al. But putting it all together isn't always easy. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that affect several bodily functions, including inflammation, pain and uterine contractions. Your body also produces prostaglandin in the lining of your uterus when you start your period. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Fun, right? 2018;50(2):116-121. doi:10.5152/eurasianjmed.2018.0010. If youre suffering from period flu symptoms, its important to get sufficient rest to help alleviate those symptoms. The feelings of malaise and pain may kick in just before or at the time you start your period each month. 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. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. The patch, pill, and ring work similarly because they're systemic hormones, meaning they're absorbed into the body and don't go straight to your uterus, says Dr. Greves. This causes the low-grade fever. 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. 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). 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. Get a massage. But unless your period is late, theres no link between common period flu symptoms and pregnancy. Prostaglandins are a type of fatty acid, and in women, one of their key roles is to help the uterus shed its lining during menstruation. 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. Severe pain and sickness before and during your period come in a couple of different flavors. 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. This includes feelings of extreme fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and digestive issues. 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. Increased progesterone. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. 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. 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. Prostaglandins may cause a low-grade fever. 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. She has a masters degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day. 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. Fernndez MDM, Saulyte J, Inskip HM. The impact of low progesterone levels on neurotransmitters (such as serotonin). When too many prostaglandins find their way into your bloodstream when the uterine wall breaks down. For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. When your PMS symptoms feel like the flu, and your actual period somehow feels worse its time for a change. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. 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. Try heat therapy. Focusing on the root cause may not lead to immediate relief, but it's critical if you want to work on prevention. Symptoms that have been called period flu include: Some people also report an elevated temperature, runny nose, or sore throat. Read more about me here. If you cant take NSAIDs, try an OTC acetaminophen product. Dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, is one of the most common prostaglandin-related disorders that may cause you to see a doctor. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. High levels of prostaglandins are associated with more painful cramps, and can also cause abdominal cramps and diarrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. What Are Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder? A study in BMC Womens Health found that Increased hydration is associated with a reduction in pain for those suffering from dysmenorrhea. (Gentle reminder: You need a flu shot to prevent that.) Some women get intense symptoms, while others may experience more mild variations. When estrogen and progesterone levels shift in the second half of your cycle, you can feel more tired and not sleep as well. While there is some overlap, like tender breasts or mood swings, they may feel more like the flu than what you would typically associate with PMS. Still, it can be hard to accurately describe reproductive pain to other people, especially when no two people experience pain the same way. 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. Sweating at night or when you otherwise wouldnt expect to feel hot. And if you experience intense pain during your period, you may have dysmenorrhea. The influenza virus that causes the flu is not the same as the period flu. All rights reserved. Heres Why, 8 Tips to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis From Recurring, Your Go-To Household Items Could Be Polluting Your Home. Exercise provides the natural release of feel-good endorphins and helps with the inflammation caused by the prostaglandins, explains Dr. Greves. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Generally, the "period flu" isn't something you should worry about too much, especially if you're noticing a monthly pattern with your symptoms. Some recent studies have shown that for some, period cramps can be at the same intensity of pain associated with a heart attack.. Headaches. There are no official criteria to diagnose the period flu because it's not an actual medical condition. Progesterone is another hormone that increases right before a menstrual period. 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. There are a few things you can do to manage the flu-like symptoms. 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. Int J Environ Res Public Health. Treatment for diarrhea. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Some people experience period flu symptoms in the days just before their period that are part of whats called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 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. DOI: Mayo Clinic Staff. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. 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. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. 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. 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. As a licensed naturopathic physician who is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology, she takes an integrative approach in her clinical practice. Global epidemiological study of variation of premenstrual symptoms with age and sociodemographic factors. Prostaglandins aren't actually hormones, but they're like hormones. Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. Looking at the underlying root causes, such as hormone imbalances or inflammation, is vital for taking charge of symptoms. 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. Speak to your doctor about possible lifestyle changes and preventive options such as hormonal birth control. 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. If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. It's natural to have an uptick in inflammation during your period because prostaglandins are inflammatory hormones. One reason for these symptoms is that prostaglandins are high just before and at the start of your period. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. A root cause approach considers why you have these symptoms in the first place instead of only addressing the symptoms. "This drop in the hormone LH and progesterone causes some women to feel a whole host of symptoms," says Dr. Shirazian. he Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation. 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 molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. 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.). Lastly, healthcare providers may take a blood sample to test for other possible health conditions with similar symptoms. "My patients complain about all kinds of different illness that seem to come about right before their period, and theyre always cyclical," she says. Already. Staying hydrated; exercising; eating healthy foods, like whole grains and vegetables; and getting enough sleep are key. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice new or changing breast lumps or nipple discharge. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. This pain is caused by natural chemicals called prostaglandins that are made in the lining of the uterus. This can be done by simply logging in how you feel in a notebook or in a period tracking app. Jehan S, Auguste E, Hussain M, Pandi-Perumal SR, Brzezinski A, Gupta R, Attarian H, Jean-Louis G, McFarlane SI. Heres what to know. Ovulation can also increase your core body temperature (basal body temperature) for a couple of days. Ask your doctor to figure out the best choice for you. We avoid using tertiary references. Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, progesterone might affect neurotransmitters, serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). We need more research to completely understand all of the causes for these symptoms. Period flu symptoms are similar to PMS and start after ovulation and before your period. Period flu symptoms After ovulation, which occurs when the ovary releases an egg, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone begin to drop. Prostaglandins. Period flu symptoms can make it hard to function, but there are several things you can do for relief. However, its still important to be aware of its symptoms and potential relevance to your own individual cycle. Crying and feeling sad or anxious before or during your period is fairly normal, and likely due to fluctuating hormones. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. For example, you can take a tablet every six hours as needed. 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. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? And the symptoms will generally occur on a monthly basis. National Library of Medicine. Premenstrual Syndrome: Overview. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. That process can cause some unpleasant symptoms, like diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and general achiness. 2800 N 6th St Unit 1 PMB 953 Saint Augustine FL 32084, Get Your FREE Hormone Starter Kit with7 Day Meal Plan & Recipe Guide. Heres why this symptom occurs and what you can do to find relief. It can be a little tricky, Dr. Wider says. An IUD that goes into the uterus during an office procedure. Last medically reviewed on July 29, 2019. 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. Loose stools. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Teatero ML, Mazmanian D, Sharma V. Effects of the menstrual cycle on bipolar disorder. Like PMS, the period flu typically strikes at the same point during your menstrual cycle: after ovulation and before your period. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. 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. 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. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. When this happens, your body temperature goes up. The period flu can lead to many symptoms familiar to PMS,such as: Other common symptoms may resemble the flu, including: Those symptoms typically begin either right before or at the start of your period. Ginger can also help with pain, nausea, and other symptoms of PMS, as noted in several studies. Dr. Graves recommends eating plenty of inflammation-fighting foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to help fight the pain associated with the increased levels of prostaglandins. "There isn't a specific patient type that makes you more prone to the 'period flu,' but certainly, some women are more prone to feeling PMS symptoms during their period. Her advice: In other words, is period fludangerous? Then comes the luteal phase, when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. You're probably already aware of a few positive diet changes you could make. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, the following vitamins and herbal supplements may help to soothe or alleviate symptoms: Before trying a new vitamin or herbal remedy, make sure to speak with your doctor, as they will know whether or not you can take it alongside any existing medications. Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping are often associated with fluctuations in progesterone and decreased levels of melatonin during the menstrual cycle. These flu-like feelings are similar to or overlap with a group of symptoms doctor call dysmenorrhea (painful periods) or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Period flu is a collection of symptoms that manifest in many women right before they begin flowing. Period flu is not an official medical diagnosis, so there is no specific set of symptoms. Once your period starts, gauge your symptoms to see if you need to continue to take them. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. According to. 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. 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. Secondary dysmenorrhea, on the other hand, is pain from a disorder in your reproductive organs. In fact, one study found that just 8 weeks of regular exercise could help to reduce symptoms of PMS. 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. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. If you notice this, get help right away or head to the nearest hospital. Intrigued? There are a few potential hacks you can try, according to womens health expert Jennifer Wider, MD. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. Keep in mind that not every medicine is explicitly approved for that purpose. 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. Remember too, sometimes it is just the flu. They can do a proper workup and help you feel A-okay when your period comes your way. "Upper-respiratory symptoms don't usually go along with 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. These compounds have hormone-like effects and are found in tissue throughout the body. 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. Youre not alone. With a few lifestyle changes to address inflammation and hormone balance, you can take charge of your health and feel like yourself again. 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. Changing hormones influence your brain chemistry, causing serotonin levels to fluctuate. A study published in 2016 found that prostaglandins can affect neurons in the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. For instance, you might up your sugar and salty snack intake, which can cause swelling and inflammation, she explains. 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. Everyone has heard of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the constellation of physical and mental symptoms that happens when you are about to get your period. They also elevate when you have an actual infection and can help explain why you may have a low-grade fever. If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. You are not alone. "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. Premenstrual syndrome. 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? It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. In:StatPearls. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Hormonal birth control can also help ease pain and thin your uterine lining to lower prostaglandin production. Higher levels of prostaglandins can cause more severe menstrual. 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. Period flu isnt a medical term, but it can describe the intense sickness some people get around their period. Your hormones shift dramatically between ovulation and your period, as you saw above. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your belly, back, or thighs or wherever you feel pain or aches. These chills may also be accompanied by headaches, bloating, cramping, nausea, and feeling feverish. 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. PMS is pretty common, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. It isnt totally clear what causes it, but hormonal fluctuations likely play a big role. What Causes Gas Before My Period and What Can I Do About It? Effects of Calcium Supplement Therapy in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome. The prostaglandins are the cause of your period flu symptoms. Your menstrual cycle. Symptoms can include extremely painful periods, pain during sex, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and painful bowel movements. 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?
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