All About PMS

Pre-Menstrual syndrome brings drastic change in women, especially during the pre-menstrual phase. The feelings may become very intense and women have no control over their emotional reactions. These symptoms occur after the middle of the ovulation and disappear as soon as the menses arrive.

Symptoms

There are over 200 symptoms of PMS. These include constipation, weight gain, frequent headaches, acne, swelling in breasts, irritability, and increased sensitivity towards normal issues. Bloating, mood swings, crying for no reason, anxiety, water retention, depression, uncontrollable cravings for sugary and salty foods is also observed.

Classification of PMS

PMS can be classified into 4 categories-Types A (Anxiety), C (Cravings), H (Hyper hydration) and D (Depression). Most PMS sufferers constitute Type A class of PMS. Anxiety PMS is characterized by excess irritability and mood swings. In Cravings PMS patient experiences frequent headaches, fatigue and increased appetite. Water retention, weight gain and abdominal bloating occurs in Hyperhydration PMS. Confusion, crying spells and forgetfulness are signs of Depression PMS.

PMS can occur to anyone at any age. Most young women are complaining these days for increased hair on their body. Hormonal disturbances are major causes for PMS. If mother has suffered from PMS it is most likely that the daughter will show the symptoms. Bearing many consecutive pregnancies may cause development of PMS.

Treatment of PMS

Contraceptive pills are often prescribed first to regulate the menstrual cycle but these have shown to have serious side effects. Pills may worsen PMS. Side effects include depression, nausea, vomiting and weight gain.

In case of excess bleeding, GnRH (gonadotrophin release hormone) analogues are given. These develop a temporary state of menopause. To decrease water retention diuretics can be given. This instantly starts excreting extra fluid from the body but it also makes minerals deplete from the body, especially potassium. Therefore, proper monitoring by your physician is very important.

Regular supplementation helps in curing PMS gradually and avoids re-occurrence. Daily supplementation must include vitamin B6, vitamin E, zinc, essential fatty acids and magnesium. Traditional medicines are found to be very helpful in treating symptoms of PMS.

Decoction and teas of these herbs can be taken once daily as an alternative to caffeinated and aerated drinks. Herbs include black cohosh, chasteberry, dong quai and dandelion. List is not exclusive.