Premenstrual syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS, is a very common concern that about 48% of women of childbearing age face. While most women experience some degree of PMS, some women find it so severe that it interferes with their daily lives.
While there is no cure for PMS, it can be managed with OTC medications and certain lifestyle changes. Keep reading ahead to learn more about Premenstrual syndrome, its symptoms, and its causes.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the days leading up to a woman’s period. PMS can cause various symptoms, including mood swings, fatigue, bloating, and cravings for certain foods. The symptoms generally start showing up between the period of ovulation and right before the onset of your period.
There is no one cause of premenstrual syndrome, and it is likely caused by a combination of hormonal and physical factors. Some women find that their symptoms improve as they age, while others become more severe. Various premenstrual syndrome treatments are available, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and lifestyle changes.
There are various symptoms that can be associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While each person may experience different symptoms, some are more common.
Some of the common premenstrual syndrome symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Food cravings
- Fatigue
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms before your period, you may suffer from PMS. It’s important to consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes of these symptoms.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a collection of symptoms many women experience in the days leading up to their period. While the symptoms of PMS vary from woman to woman, there are some common causes of this condition.
Hormonal imbalance
One of the most common premenstrual syndrome causes is hormonal imbalance. This can be due to a variety of factors, including stress, diet, and certain medications.
When progesterone and estrogen levels are out of balance, it can lead to various symptoms, including mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.
Nutritional deficiencies
Another common cause of PMS is nutritional deficiencies. Studies show that women who are deficient in certain nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6, are more likely to experience PMS symptoms.
If you think you have any of these deficiencies in any of these nutrients, talk to your doctor about supplementation.
Psychological stress
Finally, PMS can also be caused by psychological stress. When under a lot of stress, the human bodies produce more of the hormone cortisol.
This hormone can interfere with the normal production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Fluctuations in serotonin, a neurotransmitter, can also trigger PMS symptoms.
The first step in treating PMS is to track your symptoms. This can help the doctor identify triggers and patterns. Once the doctor knows what’s causing your symptoms, they develop a treatment plan.
There are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Some women find relief with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Others may need to take a prescription medication, such as an antidepressant or birth control pill.
If medication doesn’t relieve your symptoms, you may need to try other interventions. These can include dietary changes, exercise, and supplements. Some women find relief in relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
First, consider the severity of your symptoms. If you’re having mild symptoms that are not interfering with your daily life, you may not need to see a doctor. However, if your symptoms are severe, or if they’re interfering with your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy your life, it’s worth considering a trip to the doctor as there may be some premenstrual syndrome complications.
Another thing to remember is the timing of your symptoms. If you’re experiencing symptoms only a few days before your period, it’s likely that they’re due to premenstrual syndrome.
However, if you’re experiencing symptoms earlier in your cycle, you may have another health condition, such as endometriosis.
Finally, consider your family history. If you have a family member diagnosed with a condition like PMDD or PMS, you may be more likely to experience severe symptoms yourself. If this is the case, it’s worth talking to your doctor to see if you need any additional support.
PMS/premenstrual syndrome can be a very debilitating condition that can interfere with your life. If you’re experiencing severe PMS symptoms, you must talk to your doctor. Your doctor can make a premenstrual syndrome diagnosis and create a treatment plan.
There are a number of treatments available for PMS, so it’s important to find one that’s right for you. If you’re experiencing mild PMS symptoms, over-the-counter medications may be sufficient. However, if your symptoms are severe, you may need prescription medications.
Gynaecologists at the CK Birla Hospital are experienced in treating all female reproductive issues, including those around PMS. Furthermore, our experts can effectively help you manage Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
