Who Would Know What Is Premenstrual Syndrome

It’s natural for women to wonder, “What is premenstrual syndrome?” and to question if they might have it. In fact, it is estimated that at least 80% of all fertile women suffer from some of the symptoms of PMS. Yet, as you read more premenstrual syndrome information, you may also consider that it could be depression, PMDD, anxiety disorder or even a thyroid problem. It’s important that you get the PMS facts before simply chalking it up to “that time of the month.”

Have you asked your doctor, “What is premenstrual syndrome?” If so, he or she may have given you a list of the symptoms that affect at least 80% of all women who menstruate. You may have mood swings that make you anxious, irritable or teary suddenly for no real reason at all. You may be prone to binge eating, craving sweets and carbohydrates. You’ll retain more water, feel bloated, suffer frequent headaches and have aching breasts. You may have mild or moderate insomnia or extreme fatigue. These premenstrual related symptoms can be very uncomfortable, but they don’t usually interfere with daily activities. The severity will vary from woman to woman, from mild to severe, yet once menstruation begins, these symptoms subside until the following month.

Are you learning about “What is premenstrual syndrome?” If so, then it’s also important to understand what premenstrual syndrome is not. If you feel depressed, down in the dumps, anxious or moody all month long (even if it’s worse during the days prior to your period), then you may have an underlying mood disorder that flares up worse due to your changing hormones. It is estimated that about a third of all women who visit their doctors to report severe PMS end up being diagnosed for clinical depression. If you only have mood fluctuations during the 7 to 10 days before your menstruation begins, but you find that you’re lashing out at everyone around you, you’re feeling hopeless and your daily life is interrupted by your symptoms, then you may have a more severe case of premenstrual syndrome, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Once you’ve learned the answer to “What is premenstrual syndrome?” you will likely be looking for treatment options. The physical symptoms of run-of-the-mill PMS are generally treated with an over-the-counter medication like Advil, Tylenol, Pamprin or Motrin. Lifestyle changes like exercise and diet modifications are usually helpful ways to stabilize one’s mood. If you suspect you have PMDD, then you may need to focus on a three-prong approach: medication, behavioral changes and diet modifications. There are three FDA-approved medications to treat PMDD; Zoloft, Paxil and Prozac.

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