What causes whole-body fever and headache during menstruation?

Generalized body heat and headache during menstruation may be caused by non-disease factors, or could be related to certain medical conditions such as premenstrual syndrome or the common cold. It is important to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Non-disease factors

Hormone levels in the body fluctuate during menstruation. These hormonal changes may slightly elevate body temperature, leading to a sensation of fever. Additionally, increased levels of prostaglandins during the menstrual period can affect cerebral blood vessels, stimulating vasoconstriction and thereby causing headaches.

2. Disease-related factors

a. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Fluctuations in hormone levels at the onset of menstruation can stimulate the central nervous system, resulting in premenstrual syndrome. One hormone involved, called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), helps regulate blood vessel constriction. A decrease in hormone secretion before menstruation may lead to unstable vascular contractions, triggering headaches. If symptoms are significant, medications such as acetaminophen tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or celecoxib capsules may be used under medical guidance to help relieve symptoms.

b. Common cold

When immunity is low, the body becomes more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections, which may result in fever, runny nose, sneezing, and headache. These symptoms may also disrupt nighttime sleep, potentially worsening headaches. Under medical supervision, treatments may include cold-relieving granules, Yinqiao San (Lonicera and Forsythia powder), or Shuanghuanglian oral liquid.

In addition, conditions such as menstrual irregularities or gastroenteritis may also cause the aforementioned symptoms. It is recommended to visit relevant departments such as gynecology or general internal medicine at a hospital for proper diagnosis. Once the cause is identified, treatment should be administered according to medical advice.