Premenstrual syndrome can manifest itself in many ways. Fortunately, the general population is much better informed and does not hesitate to consult their doctor when they experience something that partly impairs their quality of life, such as some dizziness with their period.
In our Medical Centre El Campanario, located in Calahonda, in Mijas, we attend to patients who already know that menstruation causes dizziness, yes, but these should not be so intense as to force you to stay in bed. When this happens, period sickness can be a symptom of an illness such as anaemia.
Does menstruation cause dizziness?
Indeed, dizziness in the first few days of menstruation or a couple of days before the onset of bleeding is a common occurrence.. Not all dizziness is the same, partly because different factors are responsible. Some people experience one-off dizziness, others experience dizziness accompanied by confusion, and for some, menstrual dizziness is more reminiscent of positional vertigo because it is accompanied by nausea and general discomfort.
Main causes of period sickness
Hormonal fluctuations
Hormonal changes inherent in the menstrual cycle can affect mood or cause fluid retention in the days immediately preceding bleeding. Both of these can themselves cause minor dizziness that may be accompanied by other symptoms, for example, problems with digestion or bowel transit.
This natural cause is responsible for many cases of period sickness. They are the least likely to interfere with daily activity because they can be controlled by moderating salt intake in the days before, maintaining proper hydration and, if anything, with a slight change in diet.
Hypotension
Bleeding during menstruation is not just blood, but blood with tissue and other fluids. When you see swelling, you may think you are well hydrated when you are not.
The hypotensive peopleThose who have very heavy periods (sometimes due to fibroids) and those who take certain medications are more likely to suffer from low blood pressure during the first few days of their period. In this case, it is not hormonal fluctuations that are directly responsible.
Hypertension
It is the other way around, some people may experience increases in blood pressure during PMS.sometimes caused by a craving for certain foods.
Dizziness due to hypertension is often accompanied by whistling and, not infrequently, headaches.
Iron deficiency anaemia
If you suffer from iron deficiency anaemia and have heavy periods, it is common to experience dizziness, lightheadedness or even lightheadedness at certain times of your period. Once iron levels and blood deposits are controlled, these symptoms disappear.
Other types of anaemia
Anyone with anaemia will feel more tired or dizzy if they experience bleeding of any kind. If you suffer from anaemia and have heavy periods, tell your doctor about it.
Toxic shock
Fortunately, these are exceptional but very dangerous cases. The shock Toxic fever, sometimes associated with the use of tampons, although not caused by tampon use alone, is associated with sudden high fever, dizziness and fainting. If you suspect you are suffering from it, even if in doubt, go to the nearest emergency department.
How to avoid period sickness
In addition to following some of the specific guidelines discussed in the previous sections, you can follow a generic strategy to keep period sickness at bay.
Toxic shock
Even if you retain fluid in your abdomen and hips, you may not have the right level of hydration. Don't neglect your water intake and avoid salty foods.
Performs annual blood tests
Even if you are well, an annual blood test helps to detect many problems responsible for period sickness and worse, before you feel the symptoms. The most common example is iron deficiency anaemia.
Control cravings
Hormonal changes can make you hate food on the days of the onset of your period or, on the contrary, be ravenously hungry. If the latter happens to you, your body is probably asking for high-calorie foods that are not always healthy because of the ingredients they contain.
If this happens to you, remember that it is better to prepare a homemade cocoa shake or eat some nuts than to opt for industrial or ultra-processed pastries, which are sometimes too high in sodium.
Consultation with the specialist
If, despite taking these precautions, period sickness does not improve, consult your gynaecologist. If he/she considers it necessary, he/she shall request the collaboration of an endocrinologist.
Period dizziness is normal, meaning that it is frequent. However, if they are very intense or interfere with your daily routine, they could be more than just a temporary hormonal imbalance or slight dehydration. If the symptoms are severe or if they do not stop with conventional relief measures, you should consult your doctor.