How to deal with PMS?
- drnanuradha
- Sep 28, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 11, 2024
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of signs and symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. It's estimated that as many as 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome.
Symptoms tend to recur in a predictable pattern. But the physical and emotional changes you experience with premenstrual syndrome may vary from just slightly noticeable all the way to intense.
You probably have PMS if you have symptoms that:
Happen in the five days before your period for at least three menstrual cycles in a row
End within four days after your period starts
Keep you from enjoying or doing some of your normal activities
Keep track of which PMS symptoms you have and how severe they are for a few months. Write down your symptoms each day on a calendar or with an app on your phone. Take this information with you when you see your doctor.
These tips will help you be healthier in general, and may relieve some of your PMS symptoms.
Get regular aerobic physical activity throughout the month. Exercise can help with symptoms such as depression, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue.
Choose healthy foods most of the time. Avoiding foods and drinks with caffeine, salt, and sugar in the two weeks before your period may lessen many PMS symptoms. Learn more about healthy eating for women.
Get enough sleep.
Find healthy ways to cope with stress. Talk to your friends or write in a journal. Some women also find yoga, massage, or meditation helpful.
Don’t smoke. In one large study, women who smoked reported more PMS symptoms and worse PMS symptoms than women who did not smoke.
Over-the-counter and prescription medicines can help treat some PMS symptoms such as NSAIDS, hormonal treatments, diuretics, anti depressants, anti anxiety treatment. All medicines have risks. Talk to your doctor or nurse about the benefits and risks.
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