Some time before your period starts, you may experience bloating, headaches, mood swings or other physical and emotional changes. These monthly symptoms are known as premenstrual tension syndrome or premenstrual syndrome (PMS) . About 85% of women experience PMS to some degree. A few have more severe symptoms, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which disrupt work or personal relationships.
Menstruation is a natural part of life and anything can be done at other times of the month. There are ways to cope with this condition. PMS is a group of changes that can affect a person on many levels. These changes can be physical, emotional or behavioral. The changes occur 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation. They disappear when the person's period starts or shortly after it starts.
What are the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Most women experience PMS symptoms at least once every month, but this is not the case for everyone. It changes with age. It can be difficult to know whether you only have a few symptoms before your period or whether it is PMS. In addition, other symptoms of PMS are as follows;
Cravings: Many women often have cravings for sweet or salty foods, such as chocolate cake, when PMS starts. The reasons for this are not clear. Other women may lose their appetite or upset their stomach. Bloating and constipation are also common.
Acne Acne is one of the most common symptoms of PMS. Hormonal changes can cause the glands in the skin to produce more sebum. This oily substance can clog pores and trigger a breakout, a visible reminder that your period is approaching.
Pain: PMS can trigger a wide range of aches and pains. These pains include back pain, headaches, tender breasts, joint pain.
Mood swings: For many women, the worst part of PMS is its unpredictable effect on mood. Irritability, anger, crying spells, depression and anxiety can come and go in the days leading up to your period. Some women even experience memory and concentration problems during this time.
Women with PMS can cope in many ways. Changes can be made to improve diet, sleep and exercise. There are also ways to relax the mind and body. If all this does not work, you can seek help from a doctor.
What Causes Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Althoughpremenstrual syndrome is common, doctors don't know exactly what causes it. It probably has something to do with changes in body chemistry during the menstrual period. Some conditions affect PMS. PMS can be started or worsen if you
- Smoking cigarettes
- Intense stress
- Exercise
- Insomnia
- Heavy alcohol use
- Heavy consumption of salt, red meat or sugar
- Depression
Women who have other health problems may find that they are worse before their period. Some of these conditions include migraine headaches, asthma and allergies.
Who gets premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Any woman who menstruates can experience this syndrome, but some women are more likely to have symptoms;
- Premenstrual tension syndrome can occur from late 20s to mid-40s.
- Older women tend to have severe PMS.
- PMS can be more severe in the 40s.
- Women who have had at least one pregnancy are more prone to PMS.
- Women with a history of depression or another mood disorder may have more PMS symptoms.
How to Manage Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
There are many ways to managepremenstrual tension syndrome. Even if it is not completely corrected, one has the power to help oneself. Therefore, premenstrual tension syndrome can be managed;
- Exercise for 30 minutes during the day
- Whole grains, fruits and vegetables should be consumed
- Try to get enough calcium from food
- Salt, caffeine and alcohol should be avoided
- Smoking should be avoided
- Must have a sleep pattern
- Monitor your mood and symptoms
Some women take vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, magnesium, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, vitamin D and calcium. Always consult your doctor before taking any vitamin supplements. Unintentional vitamin intake can lead to other problems.