Premenstrual Syndrome
(Ovarian Cycle Syndrome · Premenstrual Tension · PMS)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Premenstrual Syndrome
PMS is a condition that's largely self-diagnosed. This means that people tend to label themselves with PMS without actually seeing a doctor. Because PMS symptoms tend to reappear with every menstrual cycle, it becomes easy to recognize them. Those close to you may also notice differences in your behaviour.
A doctor may diagnose PMS if you tend to have many of the symptoms listed previously. The diagnosis of PMS includes a detailed history, checking for menstrual regularity, ovulation, and hormonal fluctuations, and in some cases looking for possible psychiatric disorders (such as depression).
It is often useful for menstruating people to chart their symptoms on a calendar to see if the symptoms are cyclical or last the entire month. This helps distinguish PMS from depression.
Treating and Preventing Premenstrual Syndrome
Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle generally help with PMS. Getting enough rest and sleep is also important. Speaking with your doctor may help remove fears surrounding this diagnosis. A combination of one or more of the following treatments may help relieve symptoms:
Medications: Taking oral contraceptives or other hormone medications may help stabilize the changes in hormone levels and stop ovulation. Bloating and water retention can be improved by cutting down on salt and by using a mild diuretic that will make you urinate, such as spironolactone. Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as naproxen, or ibuprofen can help relieve headaches, joint pain, and menstrual cramping. The antidepressant medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used to manage psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression. These antidepressants have been proven to help manage PMS. However, you need to discuss this with your doctor first before starting any medication or herbal remedy to make sure it's appropriate and safe for you.
Changes in diet: Cutting back on soda, caffeine, and alcohol may provide some relief from symptoms. Consuming less sugar and salt may also help. Taking supplements containing calcium, magnesium, soy, vitamin B6, and vitamin E may reduce certain symptoms. Some people use certain herbal products such as evening primrose oil, St. John's wort, and chasteberry to decrease their symptoms; however, the effectiveness of such products is not known. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking a vitamin, supplement, or herbal product.
Exercise: Regular moderate exercise and stress reduction techniques may decrease nervousness and agitation, as well as reduce some symptoms associated with PMS.
Counselling: Speaking to a counsellor may help some people cope better with the psychological effects of PMS.
Keeping a symptom diary can give you and your doctor a better picture of your symptoms and help you evaluate the effects of different treatments.
*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®). The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen). A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article lists medications by their common names. For information on a given medication, check our Drug Information database. For more information on brand names, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Premenstrual-Syndrome
References
