Premenstrual Syndrome – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a condition that affects many women. It is characterized by a variety of symptoms. These symptoms can affect a woman’s body, emotions, and behavior. Some of the symptoms are physical, while others are emotional.
Physical symptoms can include:
- bloating
- weight gain
- breast tenderness
- acne
- headaches
- joint or muscle pain
These symptoms can be uncomfortable and frustrating. They can also affect a woman’s daily activities.
Besides physical symptoms, PMS can also cause emotional symptoms. These symptoms can include:
- mood swings
- irritability
- depression
- anxiety
- changes in sleep patterns
These symptoms can be difficult to deal with. They can also affect a woman’s relationships and work.
PMS can cause several physical changes in the body. Many women experience:
- Pain in joints or muscles
- Headaches
- Feeling tired
- Temporary weight gain from water retention
- Bloating in the stomach area
- Tender or sore breasts
- Worsening of acne
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
- Less tolerance for alcohol
Most women find that these physical symptoms disappear about four days after their period begins. While many women have mild symptoms, some find that the discomfort seriously affects their daily activities.
A more severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) causes stronger symptoms each month. Women with PMDD may feel depressed, have mood swings, feel angry or anxious, become overwhelmed, have trouble focusing, or feel irritable and tense.
