Definition
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a disorder marked by physical and emotional symptoms. It affects women 1-2 weeks before the beginning of their menstrual period.
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Causes
While the exact cause is not known, PMS may be related to certain factors (environmental, metabolic, or behavioral) that may make a woman more vulnerable to the hormonal changes that occur during menstruation.
Risk Factors
PMS most often occurs in women aged 25-40 years. Other factors that may increase your chance of PMS include:
- Stopping birth control pills
- Major life stress
- Depression
Symptoms
PMS may cause:
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Diminished self-esteem
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep problems
- Appetite changes, such as sugar and/or salt cravings, or overeating
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Headache
- Breast swelling and tenderness
- Palpitations
- Lightheadedness
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Muscle pain
Symptoms usually improve when bleeding starts (menstrual period).
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will also be done.
You will be asked to keep a detailed record of your monthly physical and emotional symptoms. If caused by PMS, these symptoms will likely occur 1-2 weeks before your menstrual period. You may have PMS if symptoms occur at the same phase of the menstrual cycle each month.
Treatment
Treatment options include:
Prevention
To help reduce your chance of getting PMS, take the following steps:
- Manage stress
- Eat a healthy diet, one that is low in saturated fat, and rich in whole grains and fruits and vegetables
- Consume less refined sugar, salt, and caffeine
- Do regular aerobic exercise