Premenstrual syndrome: how to react

Premenstrual syndrome is a complex disorder, not easy to diagnose. It is important to recognize the possible symptoms and, above all, follow some practical tips to better manage it.

What is it and how frequent is it?

Premenstrual syndrome is defined as a set of small and large discomforts, both physical and psychic, that precede the arrival of the menstrual cycle.

More or less mild forms of premenstrual syndrome have been identified:

  • mild or medium form, affecting more than 60% of women of childbearing age, characterized by symptoms that do not interfere with daily life
  • severe form, the symptomatology of which does not allow to carry out all daily activities normally
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Psychic symptoms can compromise interpersonal relationships. According to the rare studies carried out, it concerns between 3 and 8% of women.

How does it manifest itself?

Most symptoms fall into four categories:

Physical symptoms Breast swelling or tenderness, weight gain, acne, bloating, increased appetite, abnormal bowel function (constipation or diarrhoea)
Psychic symptoms Depression, irritability, anxiety, aggression, restlessness
Behavioral symptoms Difficulty concentrating, sleep disorders, both insomnia and hypersomnia, changes in sexual desire
Painful symptoms Headache, back pain, stomach pain

These are non-specific symptoms and, for this reason, to reach the diagnosis it is important to compile a diary in which to write them down monthly. The gynecologist will thus be able to verify the periodicity of the symptoms which, if they are repeated for at least 4-5 months, may indicate a premenstrual syndrome.

The causes

Each of the factors involved explains one or more symptoms, but no one can justify, alone, the overall picture.

Hormonal components can be identified, such as progesterone deficiency in relation to the amount of estrogen, increased prolactin, aldosterone activity.

There may be biochemical components, such as deficiency of vitamin B6fatty acids or magnesium, or low levels of serotonin.

Environmental factors, such as stressful events or tendency to depression, and psychological and social factors can also influence.

Therapies and practical advice

Different therapeutic approaches are possible, such as the contraceptive pill, some antidepressants or hormonal therapies. They are treatments that must be prescribed and followed carefully under the supervision of the doctor.

Practical advice is no substitute for drug treatments, but even the best therapy must be accompanied by an adequate lifestyle.

It is useful to take care of nutrition, reduce salt intake, avoid alcohol, coffee, cigarettes and the consumption of sweets. It can serve food supplementation, in particular magnesium, calcium, vitamins E and B6.

To alleviate some ailments, moderate physical exercise is advisable, but also meditation and mindfulness practices.

Last but not least, many surveys show the usefulness of an approach to the problem that involves family members and also examines environmental, psychological and social factors.

Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.

The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.

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