This article will explain what period flu is, its symptoms, duration, and treatments.

It will also point out when you should see a healthcare provider.

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Is the Period Flu Real?

Young woman feeling sick on the sofa at home

Moyo Studio / Getty Images

Period flu is not a medical term.

It describes various flu-like symptoms that some people experience before their period.

These fluctuating symptoms are not in your head and their impact on your life can be significant.

Period Flu Symptoms

Period flu symptoms vary.

They can be hardly noticeable, mildly inconvenient, or severe.

Common symptoms include:

What Causes Period Flu?

Progesterone may also play a role as a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger in the brain.

This is known as ovulation.

This hormonal drop is whats typically associated with the flu-like symptoms.

One 2019 study showed that the benefits of Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy can help reduce the symptoms of PMDD.

You may be dealing with PMDD.

They often exist in conjunction with PMS or PMDD.

Lifestyle strategies, medications, and psychotherapy are often helpful in preventing or reducing symptoms of period flu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not usually.

Talk to your healthcare provider about pain that’s new or different.

Continue to follow a healthy diet and avoid cravings for foods that could irritate your bowels.

You’re probably not imagining it.

However, your mood or mental state may affect how you feel physically around your period.

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