Premenstrual syndrome is a combination of symptoms that occur a week or two before you have menstrual periods. At least 90% of women say, one of the common symptoms that can be experienced is bloating, moodiness, and headaches. Some women do have milder symptoms whereas some might have severe ones. Women belonging to the age group above 30 years are likely to have these symptoms.

There are no such diagnoses or tests that can help to know when can these symptoms occur in your body.

Below is a list of women who are likely to have premenstrual syndrome

It can occur in several women at some or point in life. Women who have premenstrual syndrome mostly due to the below-mentioned causes:

1. High level of stress
2. History of family depression
3. Personal history of postpartum depression or depression

Changes with age

The symptoms do get worse as you head towards the ’40s. As soon as women turn 30, the symptoms can be known easily and as they approach 40’s the transition to menopause makes it worse.

This especially happens in women who are sensitive to moods due to hormonal fluctuation.

Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome

PMS is different for different women, but some of the common physical symptoms that can be experienced include bloating or gassiness or emotional symptoms such as sadness.

Below mentioned are a few more symptoms that occur and are included under physical symptoms of PMS

• Swollen or tender breast
• Lower tolerance for noise and light
• Cramping
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bloating or a gassy feeling
• Clumsiness

Some emotional or mental symptoms may also occur and below are few of them

• Feeling tired
• Mood swings
• Less interest in sex
• Tension or anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Appetite change
• Trouble concentrating
• Depression

If any of the symptoms bother you ensure that you do seek medical help.

Diagnosis

As mentioned earlier PMS cannot be diagnosed with the help of tests. Your doctor can help you with the symptoms and what can be done, but there are no such tests or diagnoses that can help.

Women are likely to have PMS if they have below mentioned symptoms

• Keeps you away from enjoying or doing normal activities
• Your menstrual periods end in four days after it starts
• You have menstruation early before 5 days for consecutive three menstrual cycles.

Keep track of the PMS symptoms and how severe they get for a few months. As soon as you keep track of the symptoms ensure that you can discuss it with a healthcare provider.

Lifestyle and home remedies

At times women having PMS can simply change their diet and lifestyle and get easier on the symptoms. To know more about lifestyle and home remedies check out below

Modify your diet

1. Bloating is considered as a symptom that affects most of you who have PMS. Hence, you are recommended to consume smaller and more frequent meals
2. Fluid retention and bloating can be reduced if you limit the salty food and salt in your diet.
3. Choose food such as fruits and vegetables that are high in carbohydrates
4. You can add dairy products to your diet and if you do not like dairy products then calcium supplements can be consumed.
5. Avoid liquor and caffeine

Incorporate in a regular exercise routine

Ensure that you do indulge in regular exercise for at least 30 minutes. Incorporating a regular exercise routine is one of the best ways that can help you improve overall health and certain symptoms.

Reduce stress

• Get an adequate amount of sleep
• Practice exercises that help to reduce anxiety, headaches, and insomnia.
• Try a massage or yoga that helps to relieve stress

Premenstrual syndrome is not any disorder that may affect your health a lot. Slowly it takes a toll on your body and then affects your body.

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