Do you know what “menstrual flu” is? | Menstruation | Women | Hormones | Exercises | Diet | Cramps | | Life

Having your period every month can be a physical and emotional roller coaster ride. For some people, the premenstrual blues include flu-like symptoms, also known as the “period flu.”

according to Sara Yuen, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Cleveland Clinic, “Menstrual flu is neither the flu nor an official medical diagnosis. It is a form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes flu-like symptoms..

It’s unclear how many people experience specific symptoms of the menstrual flu, but premenstrual syndrome is common. Up to 90% of women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) will experience PMS at some point. Dr. Yuan said most people’s symptoms can be controlled.

PMS and period flu symptoms

PMS symptoms can occur anytime after ovulation, but it’s uncommon for symptoms to occur during the full two weeks between ovulation and the start of your period. For most people, symptoms appear a few days before menstruation and disappear after menstruation begins. It may be helpful to keep a menstrual diary to track your symptoms.

PMS symptoms vary from person to person. People with menstrual flu may notice the following: Body aches, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Why do some people get period flu?

Healthcare providers don’t know exactly what causes period flu and PMS.most likely with Hormonal and chemical changes during the menstrual cycle.

A typical menstrual cycle is 28 days, but it can be 21 to 35 days. Day 1 is the first day of your period, and cycle length is calculated from the first day of your last period to the first day of your next period. Ovulation usually occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle.

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Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that help regulate the menstrual cycle. They occur before and after ovulation. If you are not pregnant, this level will drop before your period. A decrease in hormones can lead to headaches, mood swings, fatigue and other PMS symptoms.

Chemicals called prostaglandins can also cause PMS. Before menstruation, endometrial cells release prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help the uterus contract and shed its lining during menstruation.

“Contractions are the cramps you feel” Experts explain. “Prostaglandins produced by the uterus can also cause diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes even a low-grade fever before menstruation.”“.

How to relieve symptoms

There are many ways to relieve flu-like symptoms before your period. ‘Certain drugs can help’Dr. Yuan added. In this case, he noted that developing healthy habits can also make a big difference.

These eight steps can help you reduce period flu and PMS symptoms:

Plan a healthy meal: Choose whole foods over refined sugars and eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help reduce PMS symptoms.

Increase calcium intake: Calcium may improve mood swings associated with PMS. Eat low-fat dairy products, fortified foods and nuts, or talk to your doctor before considering supplements.

Use hot compresses: Heat compresses can relieve cramps and muscle pain during PMS.

Talk to your doctor about hormonal contraceptives: Some hormonal birth control methods can help reduce PMS symptoms. Talk to your doctor about available options.

Exercise regularly: Aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, can help reduce symptoms. Aim for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

Stop smoking: Tobacco can worsen PMS symptoms. Ask your health care provider for help quitting smoking.

enough rest: Make sure you get at least seven hours of sleep each night to combat fatigue and improve concentration.

relieve pressure: Practices such as exercise, adequate sleep, outdoor activities, and meditation can help reduce stress and improve the psychological symptoms of PMS.

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