Menstrual flu: what it is, why it occurs and tips to combat it

Many women experience flu-like symptoms before and during their period. Nicknamed “menstrual flu”. It covers a range of discomforts such as headache, fatigue, constipation and even fever. this is not due to a viral infection, but to hormonal changes.

It is not actually a legitimate medical term, but rather comes from popular culture. Some associate it with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but it can also affect healthy women. Why is this happening? What can I do to soften it? Below we look at its potential causes and some ways to combat it.

What is menstrual flu?

“Menstrual flu” is a colloquial term used to refer to a set of symptoms that usually appear before and during menstruation. It is called so because its manifestations are similar to those of viral influenza; however, it is not caused by the influenza virus.

General malaise, headaches, chills, fever and nausea initially make you think about an approaching flu attack. However, menstrual bleeding begins in just a few days, indicating that the symptoms are not contagious. They almost always disappear as soon as your period ends.

According to OB/GYN Sarah Yuen of the Cleveland Clinic: “Menstrual flu is not the flu and is not an official medical diagnosis. This is a type of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can cause flu-like symptoms.

Despite this, these symptoms can occur from time to time in healthy women without a diagnosis of PMS. It should be remembered that although about 85% of women experience some premenstrual symptoms, Only 20 to 40% meet the necessary criteria.

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Why does menstrual flu occur?

A common question among women: “Why do I get the flu during my period?” Well, as we already mentioned, this is not a flu attack per se. At this time, doctors and scientists have not determined with certainty what causes these symptoms or how the menstrual cycle affects the immune system.

One thing is clear: this has nothing to do with the flu virus or other microbes. The most common hypothesis is that The hormonal fluctuations that women experience during their menstrual cycle are responsible for this. In particular, this is due to the activity of estrogens and prostaglandins.

During the luteal phase of ovulation, that is, the period between ovulation and the onset of menstruation (premenstrual period), estrogen levels decrease. This situation tends to increase feelings of fatigue, headaches, mood swings, and pre-menstrual sensitivity.

At the same time, the release of prostaglandins, molecules that act similarly to hormones, increases. Although they are necessary for uterine contractions and removal of the uterine lining, in excess, they enhance the body’s inflammatory response.

This is when symptoms such as menstrual cramps, nausea, diarrhea and general malaise occur. Except, there may be a slight increase in body temperature, because they also interfere with the hypothalamus, known as the body’s thermostat.

Another reason associated with menstrual flu is the activity of hormones that affect brain chemistry, which also causes changes in serotonin levels (a neurotransmitter of well-being). By reducing its level, This causes a feeling of fatigue similar to that caused by the real flu.

What are the symptoms?

The clinical manifestations of menstrual flu vary from woman to woman. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms or the same intensity. Some may experience discomfort seven to ten days before their period.; Others, however, suffer from it during menstruation. This may include the following:

• Diarrhea.
• Swelling.
• Shaking chills.
• Constipation.
• Moderate fever.
• Dizziness and nausea.
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Headache.
• Menstrual cramps.
• Joint pain.

How long does menstrual flu last?

The duration of symptoms may also vary. This usually lasts three to five days. In most cases, symptoms disappear as soon as menstrual bleeding stops.

How to deal with menstrual flu: 8 tips

There is no specific treatment for menstrual flu., but taking certain medications and making certain lifestyle changes can help control symptoms. Below we take a closer look at eight recommendations.

1. Try over-the-counter pain relievers.

One of the first steps to reduce the symptoms of menstrual flu is to try an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. They help inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which in turn reduces bloating, cramps and body aches.

2. Adopt a healthy eating plan.

Diet can help relieve premenstrual symptoms, including menstrual flu. In this sense, It is wise to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is low in inflammatory foods. So be sure to practice the following:

• Limit your intake of coffee and caffeinated drinks.
• Reduce your intake of dairy products, with the exception of natural yogurt and some low-fat cheeses.
• Reduce your intake of ultra-processed foods, as they are high in sugars, unhealthy fats and sodium.
• Keep yourself well hydrated. To do this, give preference to the consumption of water and healthy drinks, such as infusions.
• Increase your intake of plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
• Provides optimal intake of healthy fats such as omega-3s found in nuts and seeds, avocados, olive oil, fatty fish and more.

3. Provides optimal calcium and vitamin D intake.

In addition to contributing to bone health, Optimal calcium intake may help alleviate premenstrual symptoms. To reduce fatigue and muscle weakness caused by menstrual flu, it is recommended to take 600 milligrams of calcium twice a day.

Ideally, it should be accompanied by 800 International Units of Vitamin D to aid absorption. To do this, be sure to eat nuts, seeds, cabbage, broccoli, sardines, yogurt and cheese. If necessary, choose it through supplements (only under medical supervision).

4. Exercise regularly.

Regular exercise practice is associated with a reduction in premenstrual physical and psychological symptoms such as pain, fatigue, fluid retention, and mood changes. This is due to a large balance of prostaglandins and serotonin.

Ideally, engage in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week. This could be activities such as running, brisk walking, cycling, swimming, going to the gym or any other activity.

5. Sleep well

To both prevent and relieve symptoms of menstrual flu. Optimal rest is essential. Sleeping seven to eight hours a day without interruption is critical in combating fatigue, irritability and pain.

6. Avoid smoking

Tobacco use is a risk factor for premenstrual syndrome and menstrual flu. Nicotine and other toxic compounds in cigarettes increase the body’s susceptibility to environmental stressors. This is how pain, fatigue, muscle weakness and swelling increase.

Quitting smoking is not an easy task at first. It is best to seek professional support to access various therapeutic modalities. such as nicotine replacement therapy, psychotherapy, support groups and others.

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7. Try heat therapy

Using a heating pad or warm compress on areas of the body that are in pain can be soothing. Heat helps relax muscles and reduce contractions. which contributes to a feeling of relief.

8. Try relaxing with a massage

Feeling the flu, even if it is not a viral process, can be tiring and stressful. A good option to relax is to visit a massage room. which improves blood flow, reduces stress and improves well-being.

To do this, force, pressure and movements of the hands and arms are combined. This must be done correctly so as not to cause injury or unwanted consequences. If you don’t have enough experience, contact a professional.

Should I see a doctor after menstrual flu?

In general, there is no need to see a doctor for episodes of menstrual flu. Symptoms usually improve within a few days with conservative treatment at home.

In any case, if they affect the quality of life due to their severity or recurrence, it is preferable to consult an obstetrician or gynecologist. The specialist will perform appropriate tests to determine whether there are underlying health problems and whether additional treatment is needed.

Is period flu a sign of PMS?

Some experts describe menstrual flu as a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, Its symptoms occur locally in healthy women without this diagnosis.

It should be remembered that in order to talk about PMS, symptoms must appear for at least three menstrual cycles in a row. Additionally, they should end within four days of your period and should interfere with some daily tasks.

However, feeling like you have the flu before your period isn’t always a sign of PMS. In case of doubt, To make an accurate diagnosis, it is better to consult a doctor.

Do you feel the flu before and during your period?

In most cases, flu symptoms before and during menstruation correspond to the so-called “menstrual flu” or “menstrual flu”, which has nothing to do with the flu. It is not caused by viruses, but is associated with hormonal changes inherent in the cycle.

Although headaches, fatigue, indigestion, and fever may interfere with some daily activities, they are usually not serious or cause for concern. The condition improves with home care and over-the-counter medications. In addition, they usually disappear as soon as your period ends.

Your presence This is not a sign of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), although it is more common in women with the condition.. If the disease is recurrent or severe, it is advisable to consult a doctor for a diagnosis and other treatment options.