Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical and emotional changes you experience on the days before your period starts and these symptoms usually resolve once your period begins. Most medical professionals believe PMS symptoms result from the changing hormone levels of your menstrual cycle. However, the exact cause isn’t known. Sometimes PMS symptoms can be severe, almost disabling.

The most common symptoms of PMS include:

• Mood swings and irritability, “short fuse”
• Bloating and weight gain
• Bowel movement changes
• Backaches, headaches, and breast tenderness
• Acne flare-ups
• Sweet or salty food cravings, overeating
• Fatigue, low energy
• Painful cramps, pelvic pain

For most women, the signs and symptoms of PMS tend to diminish and disappear within a few days after the start of your period. Diet modification, increased exercise, and minimizing stress can also help reduce and relieve PMS symptoms.

However, many of the symptoms of PMS mimic those of other conditions and medical problems. It’s best to make an appointment at Pasadena Pellet Therapy for proper diagnosis.

PMS is a clinical diagnosis made by the doctors at Pasadena Pellet Therapy through a complete physical and pelvic exam and assessment of your medical history. There are no unique physical findings or laboratory tests used to positively diagnose PMS.

Since PMS symptoms generally follow a predictable premenstrual pattern, keeping a record of your symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles helps with diagnosis. Be sure to indicate both the day you first notice your PMS symptoms, the severity or intensity, and the day they disappear. Also, make a note of the days your period begins and ends.

How your PMS gets treated depends on the severity of your symptoms. However, it’s not uncommon for the doctors at Pasadena Pellet Therapy to prescribe medication and suggest other treatments to help relieve your PMS symptoms.

Commonly prescribed PMS medications include:

• Antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft, either taken daily or two weeks before the onset of your period
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen to ease cramping and breast discomfort
• Diuretics (water pills) to reduce weight gain, swelling and bloating of PMS, and help your body shed excess fluid through your kidneys
• Hormones to stop ovulation and bring relief from PMS symptoms

Other treatments include:

• Lifestyle recommendations such as increased exercise, avoiding certain foods
• Use of non-prescription vitamins and supplements
• Stress reduction-perhaps with a referral to a counselor

For help alleviating your PMS symptoms, call Pasadena Pellet Therapy in Pasadena, California.