Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Overview

Premenstrual syndrome has a wide range of signs and symptoms and it is a condition which 3 out of 4 women undergoes before their menses every month. It includes symptoms like mood swings, breast tenderness, cravings for food and many more.

Signs and Symptoms

Tension or anxiety, Depressed mood, Crying spells, Mood swings and irritability or anger, Appetite changes and food cravings, Trouble falling asleep (insomnia), Social withdrawal, Poor concentration, Change in libido, Joint or muscle pain, Headache, Fatigue, Weight gain related to fluid retention, Abdominal bloating, Breast tenderness, Acne flare-ups, Constipation or diarrhea, Alcohol intolerance

Common Causes

Cyclic changes in hormones, Chemical changes in the brain, Depression

Risk Factors

Women with high levels of stress, Family history of depression, Personal history of either postpartum depression or depression

Investigation Techniques

There is no single test for PMS. Your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms, including when symptoms happen and how much they affect your life.

Treatment and Prevention

Antidepressants, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Diuretics, Hormonal contraceptives