Crazy Period???

Okay. I'm dying this morning (well not literally BUT), I got my period today and have the WORST cramps. I also have cold type symptoms including a sore throat and a lovely cold sore to top it all off. Does anyone have "no big deal" periods and then all of the sudden get beat down with a crazy one? Does it have to do with your immune system? I'm most often sick when I'm on my period... Tell me I'm not the only one