The Disease: Premenstrual Syndrome is the group of symtoms that occur before the menstrual period.
As many as 40% of women report some symptoms of PMS. The cause of PMS is still unclear. The symptoms
occur every month around the same time. The symptoms may begin the middle of the nonmenstruating time,
but are most intense the 7 days before the period. The symptoms should rapidly stop when the period
starts, and there should be no symptoms from the period to around day 14 of the monthly cycle. The symptoms
of PMS can involve physical and emotional symptoms. The physical symptoms include abdominal bloating,
swelling in hands and feet, headache, upset stomach, fatigue, sore breats, acne, and appetite changes.
The emotional symptoms can include mood swings, sadness, anger, irritability, change in sex drive, depression,
social withdrawal, forgetfulness, and problems concentrating. If you have these symptoms, you should
be evaluated by your doctor to rule out other causes of your symptoms like depression, thyroid problems,
or diabetes. Your doctor will ask you to keep a daily record of your symptoms to look for a monthy
pattern. You can keep track of your daily symptoms on a calendar or a diary. You should note your symptoms
and how they affect your daily functioning and activities. You will need to keep this record for at
least 2-3 months for your doctor to see that you have PMS.
Treatment: Treatment may
involve life style changes and/or medical therapy. Life style changes include exercise, decreasing
stress, and avoiding conflict. Exercise has been shown to positively enhance the way you respond to
stress. Medical treatments may be tried if life style changes do not work. Diuretics (also know as
"water pills") can be used to decrease bloating because these drugs increase urination of fluids. Birth
control pills are helpful in some women to control symptoms. Anti-depressant agents have been used to
control symptoms also.
|
|
|
