PMS, when Your Body Cries for Help!

January 21, 2020

What is PMS?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that many individuals get after ovulation, because estrogen and progesterone levels begin falling dramatically in this phase. Around 90% of individuals worldwide struggle with the mild or severe PMS symptoms including acne, tender breasts, bloating, feeling tired, irritability, and mood changes that threaten their work performance, relationships, and well-being up to 2 weeks every month . These uncomfortable symptoms disappear within a few days after one’s period starts as hormone levels begin rising again.

But isn’t that just part of having a uterus? Shouldn’t we just accept it as a normal part of our hormone cycle?

Although it’s normal to go through a few changes as your hormone levels vary to prepare for menstruation, the symptoms you have from PMS are something much more than your issue. PMS is the body’s reaction to the normal changes of hormones which varies from one to the others as some are more sensitive. Multivitamin and iron supplementation which are considered as the best supplements to reduce the symptoms may be useful in some cases.

What causes PMS?

The cause of PMS is unknown. However, researchers believe that cyclic changes in hormones may lead to changes in brain chemicals including serotonin which affects mood conditions. If you suffer from iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia, your symptoms may be worsened. Some symptoms may be worsened by a high-salt diet, alcohol, or caffeine. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen may help ease cramps, headaches, backaches and breast tenderness. Avoiding salt, caffeine, alcohol and stress along with exercising and getting enough sleep is typically all that is recommended in those with mild symptoms.

What are some common symptoms of PMS?

A great variety of symptoms have been attributed to PMS which are different for each person. They may experience PMS of varying duration and severity throughout their life. Physical symptoms, such as bloating or gassiness, or emotional symptoms, such as sadness, or both are the most frequent signs related to the condition.

Physical symptoms of PMS can include:

Thirst and appetite changes (food cravings)
Fatigue
Breast tenderness
Bloating or gassy feeling
Weight gain
sleep disturbances
Headache
Swelling of the hands or feet
Aches and pains
Fatigue
Skin problems
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Abdominal pain
Lower tolerance for noise or light

Emotional or mental symptoms of PMS can include:

Irritability or hostile behavior
Anxiety or tension
Sadness, hopelessness and sense of worthlessness
Crying
Oversensitivity
Mood swings
Trouble with concentration or memory
Less interest in sex

Talk to your doctor or nurse if your symptoms bother you or affect your daily life.

How to manage PMS symptoms?

There are lots of ways to manage PMS. Leading a healthy lifestyle can cause a big difference in your body reactions towards the symptoms. Having a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and salt may provide some benefits. Furthermore, some studies suggest that supplementation with iron, calcium, magnesium and multivitamins may help to alleviate symptoms of PMS in some individuals.

Getting enough sleep and doing what you can to reduce stress including relaxation therapies can also help with some of the mood and behavior-related symptoms. Pain symptoms can be treated with ibuprofen. Although some may require prescription medications to manage their either physical or mood-related symptoms.

How is PMS diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose PMS. A health care provider will talk with you about your symptoms and confirm a pattern of symptoms, including when they happen and how much they affect your life.

You probably have PMS if:

The symptoms happen in 5 to 7 days before your period for at least three menstrual cycles in a row
The symptoms end within 4 days after your period starts
Physical and behavioral symptoms interfere with some of your normal activities

Keeping a track of your PMS symptoms and how severe they are for a few months (2-3 months), can help your GP decide if you have PMS or not.

When to see a doctor?

If you haven’t been able to manage your premenstrual syndrome after trying lifestyle changes and other recommendations and the symptoms of PMS are affecting your health and daily activities again, you may be referred to a specialist.

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional regarding any medical condition. While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in the blog and to describe best generally accepted current practices we cannot accept any liability for errors or omissions or for any consequences from application of the information given.

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