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Premenstrual Symptoms
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It is upsetting to be told there is nothing wrong with you when you are feeling otherwise.
PMS is a very real experience affecting almost all women one to two weeks before the beginning of their period. Most doctors believe that the premenstrual syndrome is caused by hormonal changes that take place during the menstrual cycle.
It manifests not one but a variety of physical,psychological and emotional symptoms.
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Feeling bloated
- Getting headaches
- Cravings for sweet things
- Skin problems
- Sleep problems
- Feeling of being 'under the weather'
- Feeling bloated
If you are already suffering from conditions such as epilepsy, asthma, migraine, backpain and conjunctivitis, you condition may worsens at this time.
Do bear with your premenstrual symptoms as they will disappear when your period comes.
While most women cope well with pms, an estimated 10% suffer more severely and may need treatment. Surveys show that your are most affected by PMS if you are in your 30s or 40s. Your problems would be worse if you are also facing other stresses in life such as marital problems or financial hardships.
How do you cure PMS?
Is there any cure or relief for it?
Well, there is no complete cure, but medical treatment is available that will help relieve some symptoms. However, self-help and understanding from friends can alleviate much of your distress.
Self-Help
Do some forward planning prior to your PMS. Avoid stressful occasions and obligations. Modify and adjust your routine so that you don't put too much pressure on yourself.
Do not go on a strict diet during this phase as you may feel dizzy. Eat regularly, little, but often.
Cut your fluid intake to about four cups a day if you suffer from water retention. Reduce your salt intake too as sodium increases water retention.
Exercise will make you feel fitter. Relaxation exercises can reduce tension.
Seek the understanding of those around you. Explain to them that your reactions to problems and difficulties would be more intense during this time and ask for their support. Just talking and discussing your PMS with your spouse and loved ones will go a long way to ease your tension.
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment for PMS is as controversial as explanations on it. Doctors prescribe all types of medicines for PMS relief as follows:
Danazol to suppress estrogen and progesterone. However, this comes with the side effects of nausea and weight gain.
Bromocriptine to relieve breast tenderness, but it also causes nausea.
Oral contraceptives, that will disrupt your menstrual cycle.
Tranquilizers and anti-depressants, which may cause lethargy.
- Diuretics to help reduce water retention.
If you are trying to get pregnant, you have to let your doctor know your intention so that the drug he prescribes will not hinder your goal. Alternatively, you could opt for natural PMS relief.
Natural PMS Relief
Advocates for natural PMS relief proposes the following:
Vitamin B6, as it will help relieve depression.
Evening primrose oil, a rich source of gamma linoleic acid, as it will help relieve breast tenderness and mood changes.
Bach flower remedies, such as beech for intolerance, cherry plum for loss of control, impatiens for irritability, mustard for depression, and willow for self-pity.
Aromatherapy oils that induce feelings of relaxation, comfort and refreshment are bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, geranium which also help in soothing swollen breasts, and, last but not least, rose.
This e-book may be just the answer to your frustations: Tackling Pms
You can make life easier for yourself and those around you.
Experiment with the different remedies available and you will surely find some ways to relieve your premenstrual symptoms.
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