Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is a combination of various symptoms that is experienced by women. These symptoms can include tenderness in the breast, mood swings, depression, anger, increase in appetite, bloating and many others. PMS is common in women and it tends to be more in women who are in their late 20s and early 30s. The symptoms which can be physical or psychological tend to show around the time of ovulation and remain till the menstruation begins. The intensity and duration of these symptoms can vary every month and can be different in every woman.
The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are as follows:
Physical Symptoms:
1. Abdominal bloating
2. Acne flare ups
3. Constipation or diarrhea
4. Fatigue
5. Weight Gain
6. Breast Tenderness
7. Headaches
8. Joint pains
Emotional Symptoms:
1. Mood swings
2. Over sensitivity
3. Tension
4. Anxiety
5. Appetite changes
6. Change in sleep pattern
7. Depression
8. Lack of concentration
9. Crying
These are some of the common premenstrual syndrome symptoms felt by most of the women. For many, these signs disappear as the menstruation begins and they feel better. In some cases these symptoms are very severe causing them to affect their daily functioning.
Causes – Some of the causes of PMS are as follows:
1. Hormonal changes: Premenstrual syndrome is mainly associated with hormonal changes in the body. These imbalances or changes are responsible for the mood swings and related variations in the woman. Once the balance is maintained again, the symptoms start disappearing.
2. Depression: Depression alone cannot result in all the symptoms, but sometimes depression is responsible for causing severe PMS symptoms.
3. Diet: Dietary habits like intake of poor nutrition food and food with low levels of minerals and vitamins have been linked to PMS. Eating of high salty foods can cause fluid retention and bloating. Drinking of caffeinated beverages and alcohol may cause low energy.
4. Chemical changes: Changes in neurotransmitter could trigger premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Fewer amounts of brain chemicals secreted may cause depression and depression.
5. Stress: Stress can definitely aggravate the PMS condition.
It is best to keep a record of the symptoms every month so as to recognize these as PMS symptoms. Since the range of premenstrual syndrome symptoms is very wide, it is difficult to diagnose these symptoms. However, maintain a track of the symptoms around the ovulation till the onset of periods. The treatment of this condition is possible with medications and some lifestyle changes.
Treatment – The medications available for this condition are as follows:
1. Anti inflammatory: These pills can be taken before or when the period starts to get relief from discomfort and pain.
2. Anti depressants: These drugs help reduce fatigue and disturbances in sleep pattern.
3. Oral Contraceptive Pills: These pills cease ovulation and are effective in reducing the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
4. Diuretics: Diuretics aid in shedding the excess water by urination and thereby reduce swelling and bloating in the body.
Lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help in this condition are:
1. Diet: Eat a healthy and nutritious diet rich in minerals and vitamins.
2. Exercise: Regular moderate exercising can help improve your overall health.
3. Limit salt intake.
4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
5. Get plenty of rest and sleep.
6. Practice yoga for relaxation and meditation regularly.
Understanding what premenstrual syndrome is beneficial for women in order to recognize the symptoms and overcome the discomfort.
