Period flu is a real thing, and we’ve got everything you need to know about it, including what causes it and how to treat it.
We all know how important it is to have our periods. It keeps us healthy by informing us that our bodies are in good working order. We’ve stopped complaining about them because we recognize our bodies’ ability to keep this important monthly cycle going.
However (and this is a major but), nobody likes being sick, and some of us suffer flu-like symptoms at least once a month. If you feel like you’re getting sick every time Aunt Flo comes to visit, it’s possible you’re suffering from period flu.
WHAT IS PERIOD FLU?
Period flu is a condition in which some women experience flu-like symptoms during their periods. These symptoms normally last two to three days before the start of their periods and until their periods are over.
Period flu symptoms are most intense during the first few days of a woman’s cycle. Symptoms might range from mild to severe, and you may miss school or work as a result. When a woman’s period is over, she usually feels instantly better until her next period. When they have their next period, they start to feel bad again.
ISN’T IT SIMILAR TO PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and period flu are two separate disorders. PMS is a term that describes the symptoms you may experience in the days or weeks leading up to your period. Among the signs and symptoms could be:
- Cramps
- Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea
- Breakouts
- Mood swings or big emotions
- Headaches
For the most part, PMS is easily identified. We usually have a good understanding of our cycles and can forecast which days we will be more sensitive or have a breakout. PMS symptoms can range from mild to severe, but most people fall somewhere in the middle. PMS symptoms can be relieved with over-the-counter medications.
The flu during your period is different. Period flu is a common occurrence when your period begins. You won’t get relief from your period, unlike PMS, which normally goes away after your period starts. Your symptoms will begin when you start your period and may last until it is finished.
The fact that you’re on your period and may be experiencing regular period symptoms like cramps and tiredness exacerbates period flu symptoms.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PERIOD FLU?
Because period flu symptoms are so similar to ordinary flu-like symptoms, they’ve been given that label. This is why you might worry if you should go to the doctor when your period starts—you could even get a low-grade fever!
Period flu symptoms are similar to those associated with PMS, although they are often more severe, and include the following:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea
The presence of a low-grade temperature and bodily aches are the two symptoms that truly distinguish period flu from PMS. While PMS patients may have cramping, period flu patients may endure body aches and muscular soreness similar to those experienced while sick with the flu.
You may also have a low-grade fever (less than 100.1) and chills. It’s more likely that you’ll have hot flashes then chills if you have PMS.
When you have period flu, you’ll feel as if you’re about to get ill. You’ll feel exhausted, depleted of vitality, and as if your body is fighting a bug. You won’t feel quite as terrible as you do when you have the flu, but you’ll be miserable until your period is done.
WHAT CAUSES PERIOD FLU?
Period flu is caused by changes in your hormone levels and your body’s reaction to those changes. Although some women’s hormones seem to change without them realizing it, the majority of us experience adverse effects. Period flu can be a side effect for those of us who have considerably worse side effects than others.
When you have your period, there are two primary causes that can make you feel bad.
- Prostaglandins- Prostaglandins are similar to hormones but are not hormones themselves. They’re fatty acids that build up in the uterus and aid in the shedding of the uterine lining during your period. Your body creates a lot of these guys before your menstruation.
Excess prostaglandins can enter your bloodstream and spread throughout your body, wreaking havoc on your stomach and intestines and triggering an inflammatory reaction that makes you sick.
- Estrogen. Changes in estrogen levels during your period can make you feel like you’ve hit a rock wall of weariness. Even if you aren’t unwell, the fluctuation in estrogen levels can make you feel exhausted.
These are the two most common causes of period flu.
PREGNANCY
If you’ve never had period flu before and think you could be pregnant, take a pregnancy test just to be sure. Period flu symptoms can mimic early pregnancy symptoms.
PERIODIC FLU TREATMENTS
When you have the period flu, there are a few things you can do to take care of yourself and seek relief. Above all, remember to be kind to yourself. Period flu is real, and the symptoms you’re experiencing aren’t imaginary.
MEDICATION AVAILABLE OVER-THE-COUNTER
Everyone has a favorite over-the-counter drug, and you can certainly take yours if you’re suffering from period flu. Pay heed to the pills’ adverse effects; some of them can induce stomach trouble, exacerbating the problem.
Try calcium if you’re seeking for a natural, holistic solution. Calcium has consistently demonstrated to help lower the severity of symptoms, despite the fact that there are several medicines and therapies that have been advised for treating physical symptoms associated with your period.
GET YOUR DIET IN ORDER
What you consume will assist you in feeling better, sooner. Alcohol, caffeine, and sweets can all make you sick and make your symptoms worse. If you’re feeling very nauseous, stick to a bland diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and plain toast) until you feel better.
Make sure you’re staying hydrated if you’re suffering symptoms like diarrhea. Dehydration can exacerbate headaches and cramps, as well as making you feel ill and tired. While you don’t need to drink a gallon of water every day, you should drink enough to keep your urine pure.
PRACTICE GOOD SELF CARE
When you have period flu, taking care of yourself is crucial. If you experience period flu every month, attempt to schedule your most relaxing self-care rituals around that time. Bubble baths, simple yoga routines, stretching, and stress-relieving medication are all examples of self-care remedies.
