Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome

Symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can make a woman’s life difficult. In some cases PMS can interfere with normal activities and in the process create problems on the job, at home, and in interpersonal relationships. For instance, PMS sufferers often report trouble sleeping and frequently moodiness, which can affect judgment, stress levels and performance on tasks. Other physical problems may also be present as well for example, bloating and an upset stomach as common during this time in a woman’s cycle. Constipation or diarrhea may also be present. These problems may be related to changes in appetite, eating problems and food cravings that many woman with PMS report.

PMS is common, but not all women experience it. In addition, PMS symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. Generally PMS occurs one two weeks before the onset of the menstrual period. PMS may also be more common for women who are over 30. Historically PMS has been blamed by some on emotional problems, but research has helped dispel that notion and now underlying biological and chemical factors have been explored. For instance, it is believed that variations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone may underlie some of the symptoms. An example of one symptom that is strongly associated with hormones is acne. Breast tenderness and swelling may also suggest hormones are at play.

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms also include aches and pains that may seem unrelated to the menstrual cycle. Joint pains and muscle aches are common with PMS. In addition women who have PMS may have back aches or have more frequent headaches. Fortunately, all of these PMS symptoms ease up once the menstrual period begins. There may also be some things that women can do to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. For example, eating a healthy diet and reducing the intake of caffeine, fried foods and sugar may help

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