From Mood Swings to Cramps: PMS Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

PMS is caused by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. Even doctors do not know why these symptoms are more in some women and less in others.

If your diet does not contain sufficient amounts of vitamin B6, calcium and magnesium, then the chances of having PMS increase. Excessive stress, lack of exercise, and excessive amount of caffeine can make these symptoms worse.

The menstrual cycle is 28 days on average. Ovulation (the time when an egg is released from the ovaries) occurs on the fourteenth day and periods occur around the 28th day of this cycle. From the fourteenth day till the time of periods, symptoms of PMS can be felt anytime during this time.

(Read more - Gas before periods)

Generally, the symptoms of PMS are mild. It does not make any significant difference to the daily routine of about 80 percent of women. But according to research, 3-8 percent of women suffer from PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder - PMDD), a condition of anxiety before menstruation. And this problem is caused by changes in estrogen and progesterone hormones (these are also called pregnancy hormones, they are found only in women). One reason for this is the low level of serotonin hormone, which is known to control appetite, sleep, mood and memory related functions. Some symptoms of PMS are as follows:

• Stomach bloating
• Stomach ache
• Uncomfortable breasts
• Acne
• Craving for more sweets
• Constipation
• Diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Fatigue 
• Irritability
• Change in sleeping patterns
• Anxiety
• Depression 
• Sadness
• Emotions flowing quickly

To know the detailed treatment of pain during periods, click on the link given here.

Read More - (Menarche (First Period))

If you are having extreme trouble with the physical pain, mood swings and other symptoms during PMS or they are not going away, then you can also consult a doctor. There may be some other reason for these problems such as:

• Anemia: lack of blood.
• Endometriosis: A woman suffering from this disease cannot get pregnant.
• Thyroid: This can cause anything from a minor disease like goiter to a fatal cancer. 
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): In this, the large intestine is affected.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Persistent fatigue.
• Diseases of connective tissues: These affect the joints and muscles.

The doctor may ask you about your family's medical history. Make sure to tell the doctor everything honestly because only he can tell whether these problems are happening to you due to PMS or some other reason. Some symptoms of IBS, hypothyroidism (thyroid deficiency) and pregnancy are similar to PMS. Therefore, the doctor may ask you to get thyroid, pregnancy and other gynecological tests done. Do not be careless in this. 

(Read more - Period bloating: symptoms, causes, tips)

By making the following changes in your lifestyle, you will feel better:

• Include healthy food, calcium-rich food, whole grains, protein, low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables etc. in your diet.
• Exercise daily. 
• Consume less caffeine, alcohol, chocolate and salt.
• Take aspirin or other painkillers for pain.

(Read more - Symptoms And Treatment Of Psychological Disorders)

Every month before the onset of periods, almost all women experience some symptoms, which is called premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome is considered completely normal. It would be wrong to consider it a disease. Some people have these symptoms severe while others have them completely normal. There is no need to panic. These symptoms can be reduced by making some changes in your lifestyle.

प्रीमेंसट्रूअल सिंड्रोम (PMS) की जानकारी

	Dr. Archana Nirula
	July 03, 2019