For more information, see our. Gudipally PR, Sharma GK. "And if thats persistent, you should get that checked out.". Then comes the luteal phase, when the egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Her work has been featured in the New York Post, Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, Bustle, The Guardian, Sports Illustrated, Elle, and ABC News. Digestive problems including constipation or diarrhoea. Is there a cure for period flu? Iran J Psychiatry Behav Sci. 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. So the thinking is that when progesterone fluctuates, so do the levels of serotonin, which can potentially lead to, for example, the increased feelings of fatigue that come with period flu. A "Period-Flu" Is A Real Thing & Here's How To Know If You Have It Dysmenorrhea, the correct term for painful periods, can be treated with the help of your doctor. 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. On the first day of a period, the level of prostaglandins is high. Menstrual Disc 101: How to Use One and Who Theyre For. Instead, the goal is to treat your symptoms. And while you may feel feverish, if you have an actual temperature of 101 or 102, thats not period fluthats something else, Dr. Dweck says. 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. According to Dr. Minkin, "prostaglandins can also make you feel like you have the flu and even give you a temperature." In sum, the cause of period flu is likely a combination of the following factors: Hormonal fluctuations, specifically the drop in progesterone. Bae J, et al. your wind-down routine (hello screens and cell phones), and anything else that could be interfering. Dont smoke, and limit how often you drink beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as these may trigger some of the symptoms. 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. If you track your period and tend to know when its about to start, consider taking a Motrin the day before. Efficacy of physiotherapy treatment in primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis. But after a few days of your period, prostaglandin levels decrease so your period flu pain (should) subside. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 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. The sorts of things you might mistake for being full-on sick. "This drop in the hormone LH and progesterone causes some women to feel a whole host of symptoms," says Dr. Shirazian. These contractions help expel the uterus lining. Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, progesterone might affect neurotransmitters, serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). If birth control doesnt work out, surgery is a common next step for those with endometriosis or adenomyosis. Villarreal recommends chatting with your doctor to find other options that might work better for you. In fact, one study found that just 8 weeks of regular exercise could help to reduce symptoms of PMS. During your period, prostaglandins trigger muscles in your uterus to contract. You may feel like your body is fighting off a virus when it isn't. Flu Like Symptoms Before Period - Medical Treasure At UW Medicine, our mission is to improve the health of the public. Even if period flu isn't as commonly known as PMS, it doesn't make it less of a problem. (2011). Here's Why You Always Feel Sick During Your Period - Brit - Co 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. When this happens, your body temperature goes up. And the symptoms will generally occur on a monthly basis. Sometimes, they also cause contractions in your intestines, which can cause a range of GI symptoms, including diarrhea.. Reed B.G, Carr B.R. Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs. Certain lifestyle changes and therapies can also help you prevent or at least minimize future symptoms. Loose stools. 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. Some women get intense symptoms, while others may experience more mild variations. 2016;3(1):25-27. doi:10.1080/23328940.2015.1130520. Prostaglandins: What They Are and Their Role in the Body - Healthline Symptoms usually resolve one to two days after your next period starts. In the case of the period flu, prostaglandins are to blame. Headaches. Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that trigger the uterine muscles to contract. "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. Select Region. Period flu isn't a medical term;. Period flu symptoms After ovulation, which occurs when the ovary releases an egg, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone begin to drop. Sweating at night or when you otherwise wouldnt expect to feel hot. Of course, if your period flu significantly impacts your day-to-day routine, and you must miss school or work consistently, it's a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider to develop a plan to help you feel better fast. Another thing to discuss with your doctor is whether a change in birth control could help. 2020;17(3):988. doi:10.3390/ijerph17030988. Before your period, prostaglandins, which are hormone-like fatty acids, are produced to help your uterus shed its lining. When you get the period flu, there are several ways you can practice good self-care and get relief. If your symptoms arent too bad, consider taking an over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen. The duration of period flu or flu-like symptoms around your period can vary among individuals. So what's the difference between PMS and period flu, exactly? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In addition to medications, supportive measures like heat and massage can help ease period flu symptoms. When it comes to the effectiveness of herbal supplements for treating period-related symptoms, there is limited scientific research available. When prostaglandins work locally on the uterus, a . The best way to figure out whats happening here isagaintake a test. They could be a sign of an underlying condition that needs treatment. Experiencing mild flu-like symptoms in the run up to your period or even during your period is normal, and most of the time its not necessary to bring it up with your doctor. Learn how to limit the bloating and gas that precede and accompany your period. This is especially true if you are currently taking birth control bills, as certain supplements may reduce their effectiveness. For many individuals, this eases luteal phase symptoms, while also making their periods lighter and less painful. Dysmenorrhea: Painful Periods | ACOG When too many prostaglandins find their way into your bloodstream when the uterine wall breaks down. Perimenopause can happen years before your period stops, and it can include hot flashes, mood swings, and heavier, lighter, or irregular periods. Prostaglandins are molecules that act as chemical messengers in the body much like hormones. 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. Well, you dont actually have the influenza virus, but your body is mimicking similar symptoms. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Office on Women's Health. Do you feel nauseous, dizzy, or bogged down by headaches as if you have the flu right around the time of your period? It's also thanks to prostaglandins, which are hormones released before your period starts to help dislodge your uterine lining. Some of us need to cut back on sugar, while others need to bump up intake of fiber-rich fruits and veggies. The best way to approach it is to keep track of your symptoms by using a period tracking app or even a journal, and if any new ones pop up or if something feels off, reach out to your doctor. 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. Others feel lousy throughout their period. Get a massage. the pill) is another option for relieving flu-like symptoms around your period. (2018). The period flu isnt a legit medical term, but it sure does sum up how crummy some people feel during their period. In the uterus, they work to loosen the uterine lining which prompts your period. What Is Period Flu? 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. Unfortunately, high levels of prostaglandins can lead to severe pain and discomfort -enter the Period Flu. In fact, more than 90 percent of women most of them in their 30s say that they experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, such as mood swings, tender breasts, and headaches, according to the Office on Women's Health. They may run some tests to rule out other medical issues that may be causing these symptoms. If you have additional symptoms such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat, get tested for COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. As you get your period, prostaglandins are released. Still, the name fits well for people with flu-like symptoms before their periods. Its normal to experience cramping, bloating or irritability during your monthly cycle, but it shouldnt majorly interfere with your life. When it comes to caffeine, these beverages can actually lead to worsening anxiety, fatigue, sleep, and cramps for some people. 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. Everyone has heard of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the constellation of physical and mental symptoms that happens when you are about to get your period. There are no official criteria to diagnose the period flu because it's not an actual medical condition. While everyone who has a period is different, some symptoms are commonly shared by those who have severe symptoms. 'Period flu' might be why you feel so crappy right before your period Prostaglandins cause the muscles and blood vessels of the uterus to contract. 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. Still, some people have flu-like symptoms like headache, fever, digestive distress, and fatigue before their periods. Another powerful nutrient for hormone balance is diindolylmethane (DIM) which helps with estrogen detoxification. For example, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can work wonders for managing pain and inflammation around the time of your period. "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. Still, based on the many studies pointing toward the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric, it could be a food option for relief. Temperature (Austin). 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. It can also lead to headaches. Experts believe that changes in the levels of certain chemicals in your body during or before your period have a link to premenstrual symptoms. If you have a cough, fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, then it's far less likely to be the 'period flu,'" says Dr. Shirazian. Bipolar Disord. 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. "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. 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. National Library of Medicine. 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. How Does The Abortion Pill Work, What's The Cost? 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Period problems, solved: Prostaglandin causes that annoying AF uterine cramping. Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome. . As a licensed naturopathic physician who is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology, she takes an integrative approach in her clinical practice. Effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at the molecular level. The thought of getting Parkinsons when youre young can be scary. In other words, theres no period flu diagnosis you could get from a doctor. Kiarra King, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified gynecologist from Oak Park, Illinois. . Fortunately, you don't have to live in agony when that time of the month rolls around. 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. Elevations in progesterone followed by steep declines can also impact neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that affect your mood and energy levels. Drinking water, tea, or broth can help replace the loss of fluid and electrolytes, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you get periods, you know about pre-menstrual syndrome. She's written for many online publications, including Health, Prevention, Women's Health, What To Expect, and Apartment Therapy. Continue for about 15 minutes. Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Because it's not well studied, it's hard to say how, if at all, period flu differs from PMS or even other period-related conditions such as premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD), says Dr. Greves. Period Flu: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and More - Health Ever feel like youre coming down with the flu, only to find out that its actually your period? National Library of Medicine. Period flu isn't something you should have to deal with as part of menstruation. (Just before ovulation, levels of the hormone estrogen are also at their highest.) What Causes Gas Before My Period and What Can I Do About It? This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Although there's no cure, you can treat symptoms at home. So lace up your sneakers and head out for a walk, do some yoga, or lift some heavy weights whatever works for you. This is because before your period, progesterone levels drop dramatically. While many reach for an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication (and no judgment here if that's what helps you get through, but they do have side effects, especially if used longer-term), the following are more natural options that can help: Try to include nutrient-dense foods like lots of leafy greens, berries, olive oil, nuts, and seeds which can help bring inflammation down (and keep you regular if you are feeling bloated or constipated. Period flu symptoms usually last between ovulation and the 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. The best type of hormonal birth control the pill, ring, patch, or intrauterine device (IUD) for managing period flu depends on your symptoms. 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. This can be done by simply logging in how you feel in a notebook or in a period tracking app. For example, typical symptoms of period flu include: Bowel disruptions such as constipation or diarrhea. This can cause fatigue, cramps, and mood swings. You probably guessed it: Your hormones are likely to blame for your overall crummy feelings. 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? mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780, womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/premenstrual-syndrome. We use cookie to improve your experience. Tender breasts, nausea, fatigue, and back pain are just a few of the overlapping symptoms, she says. Blomqvist A, Engblom D. Neural Mechanisms of Inflammation-Induced Fever. Normally, the period flu is nothing to worry about. Research also suggests that progesterone might affect neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin (which plays a role in mood and energy). And it has nothing to do with the actual flu, so theres that. The main thing to recognize is that these symptoms occur at the same time every month and improve or disappear once your period comes. 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. In actuality, the "period flu" is not a real medical condition. Intrigued? Some. Flu symptoms & complications. 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. o compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. Period Flu: What Causes It & How to Treat It - Rael But if it happens regularly around your period, its likely what experts often refer to as the period flu.. Period Flu: It's RealSymptoms, Causes, Treatments - The Healthy 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.