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» Conditions » Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
What is Premenstrual Syndrome?
Most women experience physical and mood changes just before their period, such as bloating, fatigue, or irritability. But for those who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (more commonly known as PMS) the symptoms are extreme, appear like clockwork each month, persist for at least two weeks, and dramatically impair their ability to function at home and at work. For women with PMS, everything is perceived as more stressful, and everyday distressful situations feel overwhelming. PMS is no joking matter, it is a real problem and not something a woman can merely use "mind over matter" to overcome.
Symptoms of PMS
There are many physical and emotional symptoms that can occur with PMS. To meet the criteria for PMS, the symptoms must occur during the two weeks before the onset of menses, subside during the first day or two of the period, and be severe enough to interfere with her ability to function normally. Some commonly experienced symptoms include:
- Extreme moodiness-depression and/or anxiety.
- Bloating and weight gain.
- Abdominal cramps.
- Breast tenderness.
- Irritability, easily provoked hostility.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Swelling of hands or feet.
- Fatigue.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Aches and pains in muscles and joints.
- Memory and concentration problems.
- Insomnia or oversleeping.
- Changes in appetite such as cravings or overeating.
- Headaches.
Causes of PMS
PMS is mediated by hormones produced by the body and neurotransmitters in the brain. Women who have a family or personal history of depression or postpartum depression can be more susceptible to having PMS.
Changes in Lifestyle Can Help Alleviate Symptoms
If a woman experiences mild symptoms of PMS, there are simple changes in lifestyle that can bring some relief:
- Increasing aerobic exercise, for example brisk walking, jogging, or swimming.
- Changes in diet, including limiting caffeine, salt, and sugar; eating complex carbohydrates, such as grains, fruits, vegetables; eating low-fat, low-protein foods; consuming adequate calcium-at least 1,200 mg-the equivalent of three glasses of milk; avoiding bingeing and, instead, eating several small meals a day.
- Nutritional supplements such as Evening Primrose Oil and Vitamin B6--which should always first be discussed with a physician to determine proper and safe dosages.
It's a good idea for women to keep a calendar of when the symptoms of PMS occur, what they're like, and when her period begins and ends. Keeping such a record can help the woman and her therapist determine how her treatment is progressing.
Treatment for PMS
PMS is a real problem that a woman cannot just talk herself out of, nor should she have to endure its cyclical and debilitating effects. Women should not hesitate to get help. PMS is highly treatable. There are therapists who are especially experienced at helping women who suffer from the condition. Other effective treatment can include medication (such as estrogen-containing birth control pills, antidepressants, or hormone therapy). Therapy offers significant help in relieving the symptoms of PMS and addressing a woman's overall physical and emotional health and happiness.
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