PMS is an acronym that stands for Pre (prior to) Menstrual (the monthly bleed) Syndrome (condition or group of symptoms). It affects many girls and women of childbearing age and can greatly upset their lives.
Anyone who suffers from PMS and has heard the joke "What's wrong with you, time of the month?" when someone notices they look miserable will know how incorrect this quip is, as for most women the onset of their period brings an end to their misery and any feelings of depression.
Because the symptoms of PMS are so varied and can also be confused with other illnesses it is important to keep a diary for a few months of what you experience both physically and emotionally. Symptoms can occur up to 2 weeks before menstruation or just a few days before.
If you are experiencing unusual mood swings, depression, tummy, back or headaches at other times of the month, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and possible psychological evaluation.
Doctors and scientists still don't fully understand the causes of PMS; it is thought to be related to the increase of progesterone during the second half of a woman's cycle which along with another hormone, oestrogen, drops at the start of menstruation. There may also be a genetic link, so if your mother suffered you may too as well as your daughter.
Symptoms can vary (here are just some of them) and come under two main categories:
Physical: Bloating and abdominal aches, backache, headache, tender breasts, nausea and vomiting, acne, food cravings, lack of libido.
Psychological: Depression, feeling weepy, moodiness, nervousness, anxiety, difficulty in concentrating.
Many of the physical symptoms such as abdominal pain; caused by the womb contracting to expel its un-needed lining, back and headache are experienced in the first few days of menstruation by nearly every woman and by themselves are not an indication of PMS and can be treated by over the counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Oral contraceptives are also prescribed as these prevent ovulation and regulate estrogen and progesterone. A doctor may also prescribe an antidepressant such as Prozac for the control of depressive feelings and mood swings if they are severe enough.
If we are to beat PMS a change in lifestyle and eating habits is a good first step on the road to leading a "normal" life. A diet high in fibre and low in salt and sugar is advised for everyone and can be very beneficial for women with PMS symptoms; limiting your intake of alcohol, stopping smoking and losing weight if you are carrying a few extra pounds is also recommended. A good nights sleep and regular routine of exercise, meals and other daily tasks is also important.
By : Kathleen_Ruston
Anyone who suffers from PMS and has heard the joke "What's wrong with you, time of the month?" when someone notices they look miserable will know how incorrect this quip is, as for most women the onset of their period brings an end to their misery and any feelings of depression.
Because the symptoms of PMS are so varied and can also be confused with other illnesses it is important to keep a diary for a few months of what you experience both physically and emotionally. Symptoms can occur up to 2 weeks before menstruation or just a few days before.
If you are experiencing unusual mood swings, depression, tummy, back or headaches at other times of the month, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and possible psychological evaluation.
Doctors and scientists still don't fully understand the causes of PMS; it is thought to be related to the increase of progesterone during the second half of a woman's cycle which along with another hormone, oestrogen, drops at the start of menstruation. There may also be a genetic link, so if your mother suffered you may too as well as your daughter.
Symptoms can vary (here are just some of them) and come under two main categories:
Physical: Bloating and abdominal aches, backache, headache, tender breasts, nausea and vomiting, acne, food cravings, lack of libido.
Psychological: Depression, feeling weepy, moodiness, nervousness, anxiety, difficulty in concentrating.
Many of the physical symptoms such as abdominal pain; caused by the womb contracting to expel its un-needed lining, back and headache are experienced in the first few days of menstruation by nearly every woman and by themselves are not an indication of PMS and can be treated by over the counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Oral contraceptives are also prescribed as these prevent ovulation and regulate estrogen and progesterone. A doctor may also prescribe an antidepressant such as Prozac for the control of depressive feelings and mood swings if they are severe enough.
If we are to beat PMS a change in lifestyle and eating habits is a good first step on the road to leading a "normal" life. A diet high in fibre and low in salt and sugar is advised for everyone and can be very beneficial for women with PMS symptoms; limiting your intake of alcohol, stopping smoking and losing weight if you are carrying a few extra pounds is also recommended. A good nights sleep and regular routine of exercise, meals and other daily tasks is also important.
By : Kathleen_Ruston
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