Premenstrual syndrome, also known as PMS, is a common syndrome in Anguilla and many other countries. It is estimated that as many as 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome. Fortunately, there are many options to control the signs and symptoms.
What is PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of signs and symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. Symptoms tend to occur about a week prior to the onset of menses in most cases, and end a few days after menses. Each woman’s symptoms are different and can vary from month to month.
What are some signs and symptoms of PMS?
The list of potential signs and symptoms for premenstrual syndrome is long, but most women only experience a few of these problems. The following might occur:
Emotional and behavioural 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
Physical signs and symptoms:
• Joint or muscle pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Weight gain related to fluid retention
• Abdominal bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Acne flare-ups
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Alcohol intolerance
The severity of signs and symptoms might vary from women to women and in some cases might be severe enough to affect their daily lives.
What causes PMS?
It is not fully understood why women get PMS. Many researchers think it might be related to hormone levels during the menstrual cycle, but several other factors might be involved.
Diagnosis
There are no unique physical findings or lab tests to positively diagnose premenstrual syndrome. Your gynaecologist will carry out a detailed history and examination and arrange for a number of investigations to rule out other disorders that mimic PMS.
Treatment
For many women, lifestyle changes can help relieve PMS symptoms. If symptoms are very severe your doctor might prescribe one or more medications for premenstrual syndrome. The success of medications in relieving symptoms varies among women.
What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more serious form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). With PMDD, you might have PMS symptoms along with extreme irritability, anxiety or depression. These symptoms improve within a few days after your period starts, but they can be severe enough to interfere with your life. Symptoms of PMDD can have a much greater negative impact on a woman’s daily activities and quality of life. The exact causes of PMDD are unknown but it has been linked to sensitivity to changes in hormones or certain genetic variations (differences in genes) a woman can inherit from her parents.
What are the complications of PMDD?
Untreated PMDD can lead to depression and, in severe cases, suicide. The disorder can cause severe emotional distress and negatively affect relationships and careers. If you have PMDD please seek professional help. With treatment, most people with PMDD get relief from their symptoms and are able to enjoy life more fully.
Conclusion
PMS is very common. The signs and symptoms might vary, but if they are interfering with your daily life you should seek professional help. The signs and symptoms of PMDD are more severe and, in some instances, can negatively affect a woman’s life, relationships and career. Women with PMDD may harm themselves or others. If you consistently experience severe depression and anxiety or other PMDD symptoms in the weeks leading up to your period, seek help from your healthcare provider. Various forms of treatment are available. PMS and PMDD are not problems you have to live with. Do not put off getting the medical and mental health care you need.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field is ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
