Premenstrual syndrome
PMS has been blamed for chocolate cravings, floods of tears, and occasionally manslaughter. TheSite takes it seriously.
What is premenstrual syndrome?
It it estimated that nearly 90 per cent of women experience some kind of pre-menstrual symptoms in the week or so before their period begins. No one is quite sure what causes PMS, but it is thought to be the result of a hormonal imbalance, triggered by your body as it gears up for a period.
Is it the same as premenstrual tension (PMT)?
Yes. Although some people argue that the term premenstrual tension doesn't go far enough to describe the range of symptoms women can experience!
What are the symptoms?
PMS affects women in different ways. Some get it worse than others. A few dont get it at all. Here are some of the symptoms you may recognise:
- Psychological symptoms: irritability, tiredness, depression, anxiety
- Physical symptoms: sore or tender breasts, some weight gain, greasy skin and hair, clumsiness constipation, stomach cramps
How do I deal with PMS?
Generally, youll feel much better once your period actually starts. If things get bad then don't hesitate to see your GP, who will be happy to help. Otherwise, there are many things you can do to make yourself more comfortable:
- Avoid alcohol and nicotine in cigarettes. Some women find drinking and smoking makes PMS worse.
- Also steer clear of caffeine in coffee and tea. Its thought to aggravate the symptoms.
- Take regular exercise. It'll keep you in shape and relieve stress, which could be the answer to your PMS problems.
- Make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet, and also eat regularly. Some experts agree that keeping your blood sugar at a steady level can ease PMS symptoms.
- Get your Vitamin B6. Found in whole grains, bananas, meat and fish, many women swear this wonder vitamin is the way to beat PMS blues. Not only is is thought to relieve fluid retention (often the cause of sore, tender breasts), it can also help with depression. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking vitamin B6 in supplementary form.
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