PMS is a syndrome caused by hormonal changes before menstruation. Symptoms include physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. Treatment can include medication, lifestyle changes, and therapy.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a syndrome that causes physical and emotional distress in some women days before the menstrual cycle begins. It is caused by the changes in the level of hormones during the ovulation process. Studies have been unable to determine why PMS affects some women more severely than others. Severe cases of PMS are called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). There are more than 150 symptoms associated with PMS, such as anxiety, weight gain, and headaches. These PMS symptoms are classified as physical, emotional, or behavioral.
The physical symptoms of PMS often are experienced more often by the majority of women. An increase in aldosterone, which is a hormone released by the adrenal gland, has been linked to some of the physical symptoms of PMS. Some of these symptoms are pain, weight gain, fatigue and breast tenderness. The pain often affects different parts of the body, such as the head, back, muscles and abdomen area.
The emotional symptoms of PMS can make a woman feel out of character about herself. This sensation is often felt because the pituitary gland begins to decrease its production of endorphins during ovulation and the start of the menstrual cycle. Endorphins are important to the human body because they are known to be a natural mood booster. Some of these emotional symptoms are anxiety, depression, lack of concentration and frequent mood swings.
The behavioral symptoms of PMS can cause a woman to not act like she is normal. You may suddenly have an angry outburst over a minor issue or may withdraw from family and friends. These symptoms are also related to changes in the level of hormones in the woman’s body. While these symptoms may last for a short time, they can interfere with the day-to-day activities of a woman’s life. If the woman is unable to control her behavioral symptoms, they could cause problems at home, work or school.
In most cases, PMS can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthier eating. A doctor may need to prescribe medications for severe cases of PMS if over-the-counter medications provide no improvement in symptoms. Counseling and therapy may also be recommended for women who have severe emotional and behavioral symptoms that affect their ability to lead a normal life.
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