There is a group of symptoms that exist in the world of childbearing women that occur in the Luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and are referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

These symptoms can be quite disruptive of a woman’s life causing physical suffering, emotional upheaval and psychological pain. The symptoms begin when the egg is released and end soon after the menses begins.

The symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe and can vary each month. If a woman is suffering from PMS she is more than just uncomfortable she is feeling anxious, depressed or is unable to cope with the daily tasks of work and home.

The most commonly experienced symptoms of PMS are increased acne, back pain, joint and muscle pain, changes in appetite that may include cravings for sweets or other foods, diarrhea or constipation, a fast heartbeat, feeling irritable, anxious or tense, feeling extremely tired or fatigued, headache pain or migraines, hot flashes, mood swings, a change in how they feel about sex or a disinterest in sex trouble concentrating, tender or swollen breasts, difficulties either falling asleep or staying asleep, swollen hands or feet, desiring to be left alone, and also weight gain or bloating.

The exact causes or causes for PMS are not yet known although studies are being conducted to try to pinpoint the cause(s) for PMS. There are many theories about the cause for PMS including heredity, hormones, stress or psychological problems but there are to date no studies that can back up any of these theories.

It can be difficult to diagnose PMS and the doctor will ask for assistance from the woman suffering from the symptoms by asking her to keep a symptom journal for approximately 2 months. This symptom journal can be a valuable tool for not only diagnosing the condition but for treating PMS too.

A doctor will also examine the woman physically for any physical symptoms of the disease and perhaps order some laboratory testing in order to rule out other conditions or diseases that may have similar symptoms. The doctor will also discuss eating habits, exercise routine, and how work and family life is going to ascertain how much if any impact PMS symptoms are having on these areas of your life.

PMS Treatment:

There is no treatment that can cure premenstrual syndrome, but there are things a woman can do to lessen her symptoms and her discomfort such as making dietary changes that will lessen her symptoms like eating less salt, avoiding alcohol and caffeine and by taking supplements to her diet like calcium and magnesium. Her doctor may also prescribe multivitamin or mineral supplements.

It is also advised that exercising on a regular basis, especially aerobic exercises have been found to effectively reduce the severity of symptoms.

Certain medications may also help minimize symptoms such as taking acetaminophen or aspirin for pain and diuretics for bloating and weight gain. Antidepressants help with the depression or feelings of anxiety as well as with the feelings of irritability.

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