Period FAQs

why do i feel dizzy on my period

by Freida Runolfsdottir PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Your hormones
It is possible to produce too many prostaglandins during your period, which can make you feel dizzy, light-headed, or even faint. This is because these hormones can cause your blood vessels to dilate significantly. Excess prostaglandins can also cause other symptoms too, including: headaches.
Jan 29, 2021

What can cause me to feel dizzy during my period?

Many factors may cause dizziness during a period, such as:

  • hormonal changes
  • hunger or thirst
  • blood loss or anemia
  • PMDD

Why I Am I so dizzy before my period?

Dizziness or migraines around periods are related to changing levels of estrogen. Estrogen levels drop leading up to a period. This means some women may experience headaches or migraines up to three days before their period. Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and sensitivity to light.

Is it normal to feel dizzy during my period?

If you are experiencing dizziness before or on your period, this could be an important article for you. Feeling dizzy is not normal. Also, it’s not normal to faint during your period. Dizziness is not usually a symptom of PMS, but it still occurs in women who are in the childbearing years.

Why am I Dizzy few days before my period?

What causes dizziness before period

  1. Your menstrual period is about to start. If you feel a cyclical pattern of dizziness before the start of your period, then likely, you new episode is because your ...
  2. Vertigo. If you are experiencing dizziness all the time, its possible you have vertigo. ...
  3. Low blood sugar levels. ...
  4. Low blood pressure. ...
  5. Iron Deficiency Anemia. ...

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Is dizziness during period normal?

The bottom line. Dizziness before your period is often caused by the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle. PMS, PMDD, and dysmenorrhea are the most common causes. Other conditions that cause dizziness, such as low blood pressure, can also be caused by hormonal changes from your period.

What causes dizziness during menstruation?

Dizziness before your period is often caused by the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle. PMS, PMDD, and dysmenorrhea are the most common causes. Other conditions that cause dizziness, such as low blood pressure, can also be caused by hormonal changes from your period.

What helps with dizziness during period?

Another reason for feeling lightheaded could be severe cramps which occur before and during periods. Solutions for treating Dizziness: Dehydration makes the blood pressure low and thus girls and women should ensure they drink plenty of water and other fluids to maintain normal blood pressure and avoid dizziness.

What should we not do in periods?

Avoid Caffeine: Caffeine can also irritate your stomach and give you that achy, crampy, bloated feeling, so it's best to limit your intake on your period. In addition to caffeine, it's a good idea to avoid sweet and carbonated drinks that can also increase bloating.

Can you pass out from period blood loss?

As a result of this poor blood circulation, some women find that they experience light-headedness and even fainting during their period, especially if they already suffer from low blood pressure.

How much blood do you lose on your period?

Usually, menstrual bleeding lasts about 4 to 5 days and the amount of blood lost is small (2 to 3 tablespoons). However, women who have menorrhagia usually bleed for more than 7 days and lose twice as much blood.

Can blood loss during period cause dizziness?

Women may also experience dizziness during their periods due to anemia, a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough red blood cells to adequately distribute oxygen throughout the body.

Is it normal to throw up on your period?

Many girls throw up — or feel like they might throw up — just before or during their periods. Hormone changes are probably the cause, and these feelings usually go away in a day or two. Treating menstrual cramps (with over-the-counter pain relief medicines, heating pads, etc.) can help some girls get rid of the nausea.

What vitamin deficiency can cause dizziness?

Low Vitamin B12 Levels Can Cause Dizziness Ask your doctor about having a simple blood test to check your B12 levels if you're having dizzy spells. Good sources of vitamin B12 include meat, dairy products, and fortified breakfast cereals.

When should you worry about dizziness?

Generally, see your doctor if you experience any recurrent, sudden, severe, or prolonged and unexplained dizziness or vertigo. Get emergency medical care if you experience new, severe dizziness or vertigo along with any of the following: Sudden, severe headache. Chest pain.

Can blood loss during period cause dizziness?

Women may also experience dizziness during their periods due to anemia, a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough red blood cells to adequately distribute oxygen throughout the body.

Can hormone changes cause dizziness?

As estrogen levels fluctuate, this can affect blood glucose levels. As glucose levels rise and fall, the body's cells may not receive a steady supply of energy, which can lead to fatigue and dizziness.

How much blood does a woman lose during her period?

If you have an average menstrual flow, you lose about 30 milliliters (mL) or about 2 tablespoons of blood every month. Usually, this is not enough blood loss to cause symptoms, unless you have another underlying condition that causes you to be anemic.

What does it feel like to be off balance?

Dizziness is a sensation that often makes people feel off balance. It may feel like the room is spinning. You may notice this symptom more intensely when getting up quickly from sitting or lying down. Also, you may lose your balance.

Why does blood loss cause more symptoms?

Acute or quick blood loss will usually cause more symptoms because the body doesn't have time to make other adjustments to compensate for the loss of the oxygen-carrying RBCs. If your blood loss is more chronic or slower over time, ...

What happens when you are anemic?

When you are anemic, any activities that direct blood flow away from your brain and into your muscles will cause dizziness. This "alarm," triggered by the brain, gets you to stop what you are doing so it can receive more oxygen.

Can dizziness be treated on its own?

Most instances of dizziness get better on their own without medical intervention. However, if you experience dizziness often, contact your healthcare provider to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Can over the counter medications cause dizziness?

Dizziness is also a possible side effect of many different types of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. These drugs include medications for high blood pressure, asthma, and other breathing problems, heart diseases, pain, sedatives, and drugs used to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions.

Can anemia cause dizziness?

If your blood loss is more chronic or slower over time, it might take longer for you to notice the symptoms of anemia—especially the dizziness. In non-menstruating women and men, blood loss from an ulcer or another digestive system source can lead to anemia. 2 . Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

What to do if you feel dizzy during your period?

Note: Be sure to see your doctor when you experience dizziness during your period, especially if you experience the same symptoms during every period. Seek immediate medical attention if you also have other symptoms along with dizziness, such as muscle aches, sudden fever, and heavy bleeding.

How to stop dizziness?

Deep breathing helps prevent dizziness by sending more oxygen to your brain. It also helps relax your nervous system to reduce dizziness.

How to stop dizziness from eating fruit?

Eat a fruit with high water content to prevent dizziness.

How to stop nausea during periods?

Try ginger tea to calm your stomach and prevent nausea. Drinking ginger tea during periods also helps relieve cramping.

Can taking contraceptives make you dizzy?

You may experience some side effects of taking contraceptive pills regularly. Dizziness during period is a typical one. Some women may also experience symptoms such as vomiting and nausea. Talk to your doctor if you think your contraceptive pills are the reasons behind your dizziness and nausea.

Can migraines cause tingling?

It is quite common for women to have migraine attack s during periods. This episodic neurological disorder can cause dizziness, difficulty thinking, an intense headache, sensitivity to light, nausea and sound, and a tingling sensation. Experts are of the view that the hormone estrogen has a connection with migraine activity.

Can fibroids cause dizziness?

Fibroids can result in excessive menstrual bleeding that can lead to anemia. That excessive bleeding can result in dizziness. Statistics show that 80% of women develop fibroids by the time they reach their 50s.

What does it mean when you're dizzy during your period?

While these symptoms may occur in a lot of women, dizziness during period may also set in. Dizziness means your head is turning and you may lose your balance.

How to stop feeling dizzy?

Here are tips to improve your symptoms. Take plenty of water daily. Dehydration can make you feel dizzy and can be prevented by taking lots of water throughout the day . If a dizzy spell starts, its best to lie down as quickly as possible.

Why do I bleed so much during pregnancy?

Causes of heavy bleeding during pregnancy are uterine fibroids (especially the submucous type), pelvic infection, bleeding disorders , endometrial hyperplasia, endometriosis, and a side effect of anti-clotting drugs like warfarin.

What hormones are involved in the period?

Hormones control your period cycle, and this happens by the rising and falling of follicle stimulation hormones (FSH), Estrogen, progesterone, and luteinizing hormones. Dizzy spell usually last only a short time, and you don’t need to be utterly concerned.

What is the pain in the lower abdomen during your period?

During your period, prostaglandins primari ly stimulate contraction of your uterus resulting in pain in your lower abdomen and back.

How long does a woman's period last?

Ordinarily, menstruation for a majority of women last of 5 – 7 days . This means, if you’ve passed 7 days and still bleeding, then you are losing much more blood than usual. Also, the flow of your period is another way to tell if you have excessive bleeding during menstruation.

What does it mean when you feel like you are spinning?

If you feel like you are spinning, tilting, or unbalance, it possible you have vertigo. Other symptoms are hearing impairment and ringing in your ears. Vertigo is an inner ear problem and could cause you to feel dizzy. Talk to your doctor if you have these symptoms. 6.

How to treat vertigo during period?

Ensure you eat all your meals to prevent your blood pressure from dropping- which can lead to headaches, dizziness, falling or even fainting. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day especially before meals to curb the feeling of lightheadedness and dizziness. Dizziness period Treatment Vertigo.

Why does my brain feel light headed?

This causes your brain to feel drained due to lack of sufficient oxygen supply hence cause lightheadedness. The fluctuations in blood pressure result in this condition.

What does it mean when you feel unsteady?

It’s a very common occurrence that may or may not is associated with any serious underlying health problems.

What is the best medicine for PMS?

Take some ginger tea: ginger is a good relief for calming the stomach, treating nausea and also preventing this condition. Therefore, it’s a good remedy for soothing PMS.

Can you drink sugary drinks during your period?

While dizziness during periods is common and isn’t a cause for concern, it can easily be prevented by taking various precautions such as: Avoiding sugary beverages: carbonated sugary drinks during your periods should be avoided since these drinks cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate and also worsen the PMS symptoms.

Can a period cause dizziness?

If the condition occurs during the premenstrual period it may cause dizziness, perspirations, fatigue, extreme sugar cravings and convulsions. However, according to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism,1986 there is relevant evidence to support dizziness during periods in relation to hypoglycemia.

Can stress cause vertigo?

Additionally, specific kinds of food, sleep deprivation, and stress can also trigger migraines associated with vertigo.

How to stop dizziness from coming on?

Lie down. If you feel dizziness coming on, it may be helpful to drink a glass of water, lie down for a few minutes, and take deep breaths. You may also consider giving gentle exercises to relieve dizziness a try once the episodes subside.

How to avoid fainting and dizziness?

Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water before meals and throughout the day is essential to preventing dizziness and lightheadedness.

How many women have PMS before their period?

About three out of every four women experience some degree of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms before the onset of their periods. 1 Besides headaches, bloating, and cramping, they often report dizziness, which may continue throughout the period as well.

Is Dizziness During Periods a Cause for Concern?

While this symptom can be disturbing, feeling weak and dizzy during your period is generally not a need for concern. It does not usually last long, normally just a few minutes.

What does it feel like to have a period?

Your period can come with a lot of uncomfortable symptoms, from cramps to fatigue. It can also make you feel light-headed.

How to stop cramps during period?

If cramps are your main issue, take ibuprofen or another NSAID as soon as they start. You can also use a hot water bottle or heating pad, or gently massage the area to reduce pain. To prevent cramps, exercise regularly throughout your cycle, and avoid caffeine, alcohol , and smoking when you have your period.

How long does PMDD last?

PMDD is a severe form of PMS, where symptoms are severe enough to disrupt daily life. It often lasts until a few days after you get your period, and can cause lightheadedness.

What to do for migraines during period?

Treatment for period-related migraine is similar to treatment for other types of migraine. When it starts, you can take NSAIDs or a prescription medication if you have one. If you have severe or frequent migraine attacks, your doctor may recommend preventive treatment.

How long can you take birth control for PMDD?

PMDD requires treatment, either with lifestyle changes or medication, including birth control or antidepressants. You can take antidepressants for two weeks a month, before and during your period, or all the time.

What causes diarrhea in the body?

Diarrhea. Cramps, TSS, and prostaglandins can all trigger diarrhea.

How to cure lightheadedness?

The best home remedy for lightheadedness itself is to lie down until the feeling passes. There are also home remedies for some underlying causes. These include:

Why Do Women Experience Dizziness During Their Periods?

Some women may experience a few seconds of dizziness when they get a rather painful cramp, which is "ok" according to Dr. Holly Raass Miller, a board certified OB-GYN. "In the same time that we are feeling our uterus contract, we can have a secondary reaction that can feel like a short amount of dizziness," she explains to Woman's Day. So if you get dizzy every once in a while, and it only lasts a couple of seconds, you shouldn’t worry too much — though it doesn’t hurt to mention it to your doctor the next time you go for a check-up.

What are the symptoms of a period?

Women have learned to expect — and deal with — certain period symptoms, like headaches, diarrhea, cramping, bloating, and fatigue. But one symptom that may be less common, and a little scary, is dizziness during your period.

What to do if you are dizzy and have anemia?

Depending on the cause, your doctor will determine a course of treatment. Your doctor could recommend taking iron supplements if your dizziness is due to anemia. If it’s a hormonal imbalance, your OB-GYN will likely suggest a treatment, depending on your age and childbearing plans, to help control the bleeding.

Can anemia cause dizziness during your period?

Experts agree that occasional dizziness during your period isn' t necessarily cause for concern. But if you're experiencing near-constant dizziness, exhaustion, ...

What is the term for a period that occurs five days before your period?

PMS. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that occurs roughly five (or more) days before a period. It’s believed that the symptoms of PMS are due to hormones. While there are very few studies on dizziness and PMS, research. Trusted Source.

What are the symptoms of PMS?

For PMS, PMDD, and dysmenorrhea, those symptoms may include mood swings, insomnia, GI discomfort, and more. If you’re pregnant, early symptoms of pregnancy might also include increased urination, fatigue, and morning sickness.

How common is dizziness in college students?

One study of over 250 college students examined the common symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Dizziness was the second most common symptom, with 48 percent of the students reporting dizziness due to their period.

What is PMDD in medical terms?

PMDD. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a much more severe version of PMS. People with PMDD experience disruptive daily symptoms that may require psychological and medical treatment. The vascular changes that occur prior to your period can lead to dizziness, which may feel worsened when you have PMDD. 3.

What medications cause vertigo?

Medications that cause dizziness and vertigo include antibiotics, diuretics, anti-inflammatories, and more. If you take these types of medications, you may be more sensitive to dizziness before your period. 10. Other health conditions. There are other health conditions not related to your period that may cause dizziness.

What happens to blood pressure during pregnancy?

In the early stages of pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels increase dramatically. This shift in hormones causes blood vessels to relax and open, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Blood pressure shifts such as this can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and other vascular symptoms.

How to stop your period from causing low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar before your period is most likely a temporary symptom of hormonal changes. Eating regular, balanced meals and keeping a snack on hand can help to regulate levels. Migraine.

What to do if you feel dizzy before your period?

If a person is experiencing dizziness before their period, they should consider talking to a doctor to find the right treatment options for them.

What happens if you don't get your period?

If the symptoms persist and a person does not get their period or their period is different than usual, they could be pregnant and may want to consider taking a pregnancy test.

What is the name of the disorder that causes cramps, dizziness, and headaches?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a type of extreme PMS that can disrupt a person’s daily life before or during their period. People with PMDD experience a wide range of symptoms, including severe cramps, dizziness, vomiting, and migraine headaches.

How to manage PMDD?

A variety of treatments can help manage PMDD. A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, including exercise, antidepressants, or medications for specific symptoms, such as pain medication for menstrual cramps. Even without a diagnosis, it may be possible to manage dizziness before a period.

What is the cause of dizziness in the inner ear?

Ménière’s disease is a common vestibular condition. An older study. Trusted Source. of Ménière’s disease suggests that changes in fluid distribution in the body before a period may also change fluid distribution in the inner ear. This may cause dizziness.

Is dizziness a sign of pregnancy?

A number of factors may increase the risk of a person experiencing it. These include high levels of progesterone, certain medical conditions, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Dizziness can als o be an early symptom of pregnancy.

Can a change in the menstrual cycle cause dizziness?

This may cause dizziness. A small 2009 study of healthy women found differences in the vestibular system during the days before their period. However, the research is not conclusive. Scientists must do more research to determine how changes in the menstrual cycle might affect the vestibular system.

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Blood Loss Can Cause Dizziness

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One of the most common causes of dizziness in menstruating girls and women is iron-deficiency anemia.1Anemia is a condition in which you don't have enough red blood cells (RBCs). Blood loss can result in anemia, whether it is chronic (persistent or recurring) or acute (severe). When you bleed, you lose RBCs. Your RBCs are th…
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Other Causes of Dizziness

  • Dizziness is also a symptom of several other diseases and conditions. These include balance disorders, ear problems, stroke, motion sickness, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and dehydration.3 Dizziness is a possible side effectof many different types of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. These drugs include medications for high blood pressure, asthma and other …
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When to See A Healthcare Provider

  • Most instances of dizziness get better on their own without medical intervention. However, if you experience dizziness often, contact your healthcare provider to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Your healthcare provider will be able to assess what could be causing the symptoms, screen for any developing conditions, and provide any needed treatment.
See more on verywellhealth.com

Summary

  • A period can cause dizziness because blood loss can lead to anemia, a condition in which you don't have enough oxygen-carrying red blood cells. Usually, normal amounts of bleeding won't bring on anemia and dizziness, but heavy periods might. See your healthcare provider if your symptoms get worse or interfere with your daily activities.
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