Premenstrual syndrome

From WikiMD's WELLNESSPEDIA

(Redirected from Premenstrual Syndrome)


Premenstrual syndrome
Synonyms PMS
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability, depression
Complications N/A
Onset Luteal phase of the menstrual cycle
Duration Typically resolves with the onset of menstruation
Types N/A
Causes Hormonal changes
Risks Family history, stress, age
Diagnosis Based on symptoms and menstrual cycle timing
Differential diagnosis Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, thyroid disorders, mood disorders
Prevention N/A
Treatment Lifestyle changes, medications such as NSAIDs, antidepressants, hormonal contraceptives
Medication N/A
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Affects up to 80% of women of reproductive age
Deaths N/A


Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms that typically occur one to two weeks before the start of a woman's menstrual period, specifically after ovulation and before menstruation.[1]

Symptoms[edit]

The most common physical symptoms include bloating, fatigue, and breast tenderness. Emotional changes can consist of irritability, tension, depression, and anxiety. The severity and range of symptoms can vary significantly from woman to woman.[2]

Causes and Risk Factors[edit]

The exact cause of PMS is unknown. However, it's believed that cyclic changes in hormones, chemical changes in the brain, and certain social, cultural, and psychological factors might play a role. Some women may be more susceptible to PMS due to their genetic makeup.[3]

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of PMS is usually based on a review of symptoms. Physicians often recommend that patients maintain a symptom diary for several menstrual cycles to help confirm a diagnosis. There are no specific lab tests for PMS, but tests can be done to rule out other conditions that may mimic PMS.[4]

Management and Treatment[edit]

Treatment of PMS often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, dietary modifications, and stress management. Over-the-counter remedies can help alleviate physical symptoms, while antidepressants and hormonal contraceptives may be used in more severe cases or for those suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS.[5]

See Also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)(link). {{{website}}}. Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2023-05-18.
  2. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)(link). {{{website}}}. NHS. Accessed 2023-05-18.
  3. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - Symptoms and causes(link). {{{website}}}. Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2023-05-18.
  4. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)(link). {{{website}}}. Office on Women's Health. Accessed 2023-05-18.
  5. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)(link). {{{website}}}. UpToDate. Accessed 2023-05-18.