What's going on with menstruation plus a cold, and what should I do?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, symptoms of a cold during menstruation may be caused by decreased immunity during the menstrual period, physical discomfort associated with menstruation, upper respiratory tract infections, bacterial pharyngitis, bronchitis, or other reasons. Comprehensive regulation and treatment are required. It is important to ensure adequate rest, proper hydration, and staying warm. If symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
Generally speaking, "dama" refers to menstruation. Catching a cold during menstruation may be caused by decreased immunity during the menstrual period, physical discomfort associated with menstruation, upper respiratory tract infection, bacterial pharyngitis, bronchitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive treatment under a doctor's guidance, including general management and medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Decreased Immunity During Menstruation
Prior to menstruation, hormonal changes in women lead to alterations in the internal environment, resulting in reduced immune function. This weakened immunity makes the body more susceptible to viral infections, potentially leading to cold-like symptoms. Symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood swings may also occur. Ensuring adequate rest and avoiding excessive fatigue can help the body resist viruses and alleviate menstrual discomfort.
2. Physical Discomfort During Menstruation
During menstruation, women may experience increased fatigue and heightened stress, often leading to abdominal discomfort and severe tiredness. These conditions can make cold symptoms—such as fever, headache, and muscle aches—more pronounced. Non-pharmacological approaches like warm compresses and massage may improve blood circulation and relieve muscle tension, thereby reducing menstrual discomfort. If necessary, medications such as ibuprofen tablets, Shuanghuanglian oral liquid, or Amkehuangmin capsules may be used under medical supervision.
3. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Cold symptoms during menstruation may result from an upper respiratory tract infection. This condition occurs when viruses invade the body and trigger inflammatory responses in the nasal passages, pharynx, or larynx, manifesting as cough and sore throat. It is commonly accompanied by nasal congestion, hoarseness, and generalized body aches. Treatment may include dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or compound Honeysuckle granules, as directed by a physician.
4. Bacterial Pharyngitis
Cold symptoms occurring during menstruation may be due to bacterial pharyngitis, especially if symptoms progressively worsen. Bacteria invading the pharynx irritate the mucosal lining and provoke inflammation, intensifying cold symptoms. Common signs include fever, pharyngitis, and throat pain. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime capsules, or cefaclor capsules should be used under a doctor’s recommendation.
5. Bronchitis
If cold symptoms worsen during menstruation, this may indicate the development of bronchitis. Bronchitis is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the bronchial mucosa and surrounding tissues caused by viral or bacterial infection. Main symptoms include persistent cough and chest discomfort, possibly accompanied by chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Medications such as betamethasone tablets, ambroxol hydrochloride oral solution, or salbutamol inhalation aerosol may be prescribed under medical guidance.
In daily life, maintaining sufficient rest, staying adequately hydrated, and keeping warm are beneficial for overall health.
