PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition with a variety of emotional and physical symptoms. It's estimated that PMS affects 70 to 80 percent of women in their childbearing years; 30 to 40 percent of women have symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily activities, and 5 to 10 percent have symptoms so severe they're considered disabling. PMS usually disappears when menopause begins.

Symptoms

There are many physical symptoms of PMS; however, many of the symptoms have other possible causes. If you have any of the signs listed below, you may have PMS, but many women experience these symptoms and do not have PMS. It's the number of symptoms you have, as well as how severe they are, that helps your doctor determine if PMS is the cause.

• Bloating

• Breast tenderness

• Water retention

• Weight gain

• Swollen feet and ankles

• Headaches

• Food cravings

• Acne

• Low energy

• Backache

• Joint pain

• Insomnia

• Carbohydrate cravings/appetite changes

Hormonal fluctuations during the premenstrual phase may be associated with psychological and emotional symptoms that strongly resemble the symptoms of depression. If the symptoms occur only during the premenstrual phase, they may be signs of PMS. However, many women who suffer from depression mislabel their feelings as PMS. Talk to your doctor if you experience the following symptoms to determine their cause and find the most effective treatment:

• Mood swings

• Irritability

• Depression

• Aggressiveness or hostility

• Crying spells

• Difficulty concentrating

• Confusion

• Anxiety

• Decreased interest in daily activities

• Social withdrawal

Treatment

There aren't any physical tests that can confirm you have PMS. However, you should have a thorough exam to rule out other medical problems that have symptoms similar to PMS.

To accurately diagnose PMS, your doctor may ask you to keep a diary of your symptoms for about 3 months to see if they follow a pattern that points to PMS. Record your cravings and aches and pains, and keep track of your food, sleep, and exercise. This log will help your doctor with diagnosis and can also help you and your doctor determine the best treatment.

Self-Care Steps for PMS

There is no cure for PMS, but you can reduce or prevent many symptoms through lifestyle changes. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may also prescribe some type of medication.

• Try aspirin or ibuprofen if you have headaches, backaches, cramps, or breast tenderness.

• Nutritional supplements, including vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium, may relieve some of your symptoms. 

• If you suffer from moderate to severe anxiety, irritability, or depression, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant or recommend you see a therapist. Antidepressants have been found to be very effective in treating the psychological and emotional symptoms of PMS.

• Oral contraceptives may decrease your symptoms by preventing hormonal fluctuations.

Preventive Care for PMS

Research shows that dietary changes and increased exercise have positive effects on the symptoms of PMS. Try these steps to prevent or alleviate your symptoms:

• Limit salt and drink plenty of fluids to relieve water retention and bloating.

• Insure an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D—usually through dairy products or supplements.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol to minimize irritability.

• Try eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid cravings and reduce bloating.

• Exercise at least 30 minutes per day to improve your overall health and reduce fatigue.

• Make sure you're getting enough sleep to reduce stress.

• Look for ways to manage your stress, such as taking a bath or meditating.