Loose stools. These symptoms all point to the common flu illnesses you know. 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. Other evidence suggests that massage therapy may relieve pelvic pain, as well. Before you do, check with your doctor to make sure thats right for you. For example, chaste tree extracts, 1,0001,200 milligrams of calcium, or 50100 milligrams of vitamin B6 daily may reduce symptoms. 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. If youre feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. The first day of your period is day one of your menstrual cycle. Why Is It So Hard for Black Women to Get Diagnosed with Endometriosis? For example, vitex, or chasteberry, works to balance your hormones naturally. And you may have increased water retention, which could lead to joint pain, Dr. Dweck says. Use birth control pills. According to Dr Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." . 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. o compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. (Theyre even available at your local drugstore now!) Early symptoms of pregnancy and PMS cause many of the same symptoms, like nausea, bloating, fatigue, and breast swelling and tenderness. Jo J, Lee SH. 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. When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . If you have a period, you probably experience some discomfort and pain around your time of the month, which is totally normal. Some people will experience these flu-like symptoms in the days leading up to their period, while others will experience them the. Why Bad Period Symptoms Can Feel Like the Flu. Take them as soon as you start bleeding or whenever you begin to have cramps. There are two main types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. She's written for many online publications, including Health, Prevention, Women's Health, What To Expect, and Apartment Therapy. As you get your period, prostaglandins are released. Youre not alone. This content is imported from poll. During your period, prostaglandins trigger muscles in your uterus to contract. These include fatigue, sleep problems, food cravings, and depression. 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. But the hormonal IUD offers a more localized response in the uterus, so it may help with symptoms such as cramping and menstrual flow. So what's really going on with your body? Your doctor will tell you the best treatments for these. A study published in 2016 found that prostaglandins can affect neurons in the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. Another thing to discuss with your doctor is whether a change in birth control could help. Generally, the period flu is nothing to worry about. 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. There's no cure for the period flu. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 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. These compounds have hormone-like effects and are found in tissue throughout the body. Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. When the endometrial cells lining the uterus begin to shed, these . 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,. 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. Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. It also causes the muscles to contract and can give you gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea. 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. Dysmenorrhea, the correct term for painful periods, can be treated with the help of your doctor. Armour M, Ee CC, Naidoo D, Ayati Z, Chalmers KJ, Steel KA, de Manincor MJ, Delshad E. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. There are ways you can support symptoms. Research also suggests that progesterone might affect neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). These are hormones that help the cervix to open, but they can also cause movement in. 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. Research has found that heat therapy can alleviate pelvic pain by relaxing tense muscles. 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. As estrogen decreases between ovulation and the start of your period, prostaglandins increase. In the case of the period flu, prostaglandins are to blame. Your hormones shift dramatically between ovulation and your period, as you saw above. While there are some over-the-counter options like ibuprofen, those might not touch your pain if youre struggling with severe symptoms. Here are some things you can do to ease your symptoms: Here are some things you can start doing to improve your periods and prevent, or at least reduce, those icky period flu symptoms during your next cycle: Some discomfort during your period is normal, but symptoms that interfere with your daily activities should be discussed with your healthcare provider. "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. 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. 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. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. In your blood sample, they will look at hormones like estrogen, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and cortisol. Period flu causes. It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. 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. 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. She is a member of the MindBodyGreen Collective and a faculty member for the American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. Symptoms usually resolve one to two days after your next period starts. Studies also point to the positive effects of consuming increased amounts of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 on premenstrual symptoms. Some people may describe their period flu symptoms as in line with the "stomach flu," which is not a real diagnosis but an informal term for gastroenteritis. Prostaglandins may cause a low-grade fever. No single medicine or lifestyle change can end the period flu. "But if your symptoms are alleviated with your period or if they are cyclic in nature, then it's less concerning.". If you're feeling feverish, it usually means your body is fighting off a viral, bacterial, or fungal. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. For example, you can take a tablet every six hours as needed. A turmeric supplement, such as Garden of Life's MyKind Organics, Extra Strength Turmeric (Available at Walmart) after first okay-ing it with your doctor or pain medication, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help ease cramps and lower back pain, adds Dr. Shirazian. 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. Headaches. Many doctors consider period flu as an exaggerated form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) due to the severity of its symptoms. 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? Prostaglandins cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract. For instance, you might up your sugar and salty snack intake, which can cause swelling and inflammation, she explains. Preparation is key for managing and preventing some of these uncomfortable symptoms, she says. What's more, body temperature naturally increases during ovulation. Prostaglandins and Period Flu . People can be irritable or depressed to the point of being suicidal, or may have panic attacks or fatigue. Your estrogen and progesterone levels are dropping at the same time, and there are a variety of theories about what exactly causes the worst period flu symptoms. 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. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Generally, the "period flu" isn't something you should worry about too much, especially if you're noticing a monthly pattern with your symptoms. 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. Weakness. Nausea can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to relieve your symptoms. What Causes Nausea Before Your Period, and How Is It Treated? It keeps everything constant," explains Dr. Shirazian. 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. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). If we're talking pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting, then it can be ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and even pregnancy, so it depends on the specific symptoms," explains Dr. Shirazian. Premenstrual syndrome - self-care. Heres what you can do to start treating those nasty periods: And above all, know youre not alone many period-havers are also sick and tired of managing their severe period symptoms and of being sick and tired. If you are not trying to conceive (TTC), taking a hormonal contraceptive (i.e. Still, it can be hard to accurately describe reproductive pain to other people, especially when no two people experience pain the same way. Appointments 216.444.6568. "Period flu symptoms can occur between ovulation and the beginning of your period," integrative medicine doctor Alejandra Carrasco, M.D., tells mbg. StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Elevations in progesterone followed by steep declines can also impact neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that affect your mood and energy levels. The period flu mimics symptoms of the flusuch as headache, sore throat, and muscle achesnear your period. 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. Or you may feel like you're about to get the flu. Always speak with your doctor first before taking diuretics, as they may not be appropriate to take alongside other medications. If you notice flu-like symptoms every month at the same time during your menstrual cycle, it's time to take a closer look. But have you ever heard of period flu? Once your period starts, dysmenorrheacan cause headaches, diarrhea and a general feeling of malaise. One of the best ways to get some relief from period flu is by taking over-the-counter painkillers. Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, is a womens hormone expert and prominent leader in womens medicine. Drinking water, tea, or broth can help replace the loss of fluid and electrolytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. 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. Learn how to limit the bloating and gas that precede and accompany your period. Experts believe that changes in the levels of certain chemicals in your body during or before your period have a link to premenstrual symptoms. Cleveland Clinic: Dysmenorrhea, Can Tracking Your Basal Body Temperature Help You Conceive?, Columbia University: I keep getting a fever with my period., NHS: Periods and fertility in the menstrual cycle., University Park OBGYN: Can You Get a Fever During Your Period?, UpToDate: Patient education: Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) (Beyond the Basics)., Chemistry Libretexts: Prostaglandins.. Diarrhea during your period is a sign that you have too many prostaglandins. 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. The symptoms of PMS vary from person to person. If you don't become pregnant (i.e. Barcikowska Z, Rajkowska-Labon E, Grzybowska ME, Hansdorfer-Korzon R, Zorena K. Inflammatory Markers in Dysmenorrhea and Therapeutic Options. 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. This leads to the cramping that you may feel. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are a class of over-the counter (OTC) drugs that can ease pain during your period. Heres Why, 8 Tips to Stop Bacterial Vaginosis From Recurring, Your Go-To Household Items Could Be Polluting Your Home. Villarreal says that for some, their pain might be bad enough to need medication to manage it. Period flu is a collection of symptoms that manifest in many women right before they begin flowing. 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. For those with these intense symptoms, it can be hard to believe some people dont have moments of gripping pain associated with their cycle. 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. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Prostaglandins. 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. Endometriosis is a condition where the uterine lining grows in places other than the uterus. This is especially true if you are currently taking birth control bills, as certain supplements may reduce their effectiveness. In fact, more than 100 symptoms have been linked to PMS. (2011). Learn when to get help. Ovulation can also increase your core body temperature (basal body temperature) for a couple of days. If medication isn't an option, these 10 natural treatments may. So, in general, while you might feel icky, you'll be totally fine in a few days. These flu-like feelings are similar to or overlap with a group of symptoms doctor call dysmenorrhea (painful periods) or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 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. Period flu symptoms, like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue, can feel a lot like the flu. As the name indicates, period flu symptoms mimic the real flu but are tied into your menstrual cycle and aren't contagious. A study in BMC Womens Health found that Increased hydration is associated with a reduction in pain for those suffering from dysmenorrhea. It's common to feel a little more tired than usual when you're about to start your period. When it comes to the effectiveness of herbal supplements for treating period-related symptoms, there is limited scientific research available. Your immune system activates antibodies and other chemicals like prostaglandin to destroy the virus or bacteria. Heres why this symptom occurs and what you can do to find relief. Theyre also not a joke, either. Some evidence suggests that herbs and supplements may relieve PMS symptoms. In other words, theres no period flu diagnosis you could get from a doctor. Effects of Calcium Supplement Therapy in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome. We think possibly some underlying diseases such as endometriosis, adenomyosis or anatomic variants can increase pain and bleeding in some people, Villarreal says. 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. . Bipolar Disord. If you feel like youve been hit by a truck before your period with intense mood swings to boot you might have severe PMS symptoms. Period flu is a slang term for the cluster of flu-like emotions that women can sometimes experience before or during their period. In turn, those products may relieve period flu symptoms. "Some warm compresses can also help with back pain," she adds. The duration of period flu or flu-like symptoms around your period can vary among individuals. Generally, avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming too much caffeine and salt can help reduce period flu symptoms. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? Even if period flu isn't as commonly known as PMS, it doesn't make it less of a problem. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this web site. How Young Is Too Young to Get Parkinson's Disease? Period flu is . Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Vaghela N, Mishra D, Sheth M, Dani VB. If the contractions are too strong that they may press up against surrounding blood vessels and cut off some of the oxygen supply. Learn more about why it happens and how to manage symptoms. 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. 2018;50(2):116-121. doi:10.5152/eurasianjmed.2018.0010. Is It Normal to Cry More During Your Period. First of all, if your symptoms are severe, talk toa professional, such as your gynecologist. Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile tea may also help. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. Menstrual Disc 101: How to Use One and Who Theyre For. Period flu symptoms are similar tobut more severe thanpremenstrual syndrome (PMS). Home remedies and lifestyle treatment for period flu, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). If your symptoms are very bad, you may take NSAIDs and birth control pills together. Periods arent gross or shameful. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. What Are Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder? 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. They may ask you to track your symptoms daily to see what symptoms happen while ovulating and menstruating. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Tender breasts, nausea, fatigue, and back pain are just a few of the overlapping symptoms, she says. Estrogen levels also dip or change rapidly around this time. Prostaglandins are produced before having a period to start the process of dislodging the lining of the uterine from the uterus wall so that a woman has period flow. The best way to combat the chills includes drinking plenty of water, eating regular nutritious meals, and keeping your body moving with regular exercise. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that trigger the uterine muscles to contract. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2017. In severe cases, a certain type of antidepressant can also be used to treat extreme symptoms. And it has nothing to do with the actual flu, so theres that.
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