PMS (premenstrual syndrome)symptoms are more numerous and diverse than you may think. There are in fact, over 150 different PMS symptoms. No woman will experience every potential PMS symptom (although during some months, many women might argue this point!) in one cycle and no two women are likely to experience the same pattern of PMS symptoms. PMS symptoms are unique to the individual and can even vary in the same woman from cycle to cycle. As many as 90% of menstruating women of childbearing age regularly experience PMS symptoms, which can range from being only mild to moderate, having little impact on quality of life, or can be so severe as to be incapacitating. The PMS symptom spectrum covers both physical and psychological aspects and affects almost every organ system in the body. The 'classic' mood related PMS symptoms include irritability, anger, anxiety, sadness and even depression. Frequent and severe swings between these and much better, brighter moods are common. Predictability of mood is definitely not a symptom of PMS! Psychological and neurological PMS symptoms extend to insomnia, anorexia, food cravings, fatigue, lethargy, a change in sex drive, clumsiness, dizziness or vertigo, decreased concentration and indecision. Physical symptoms typical of PMS include headaches, joint pain, breast tenderness, muscle pain, perspiration and sweating, heart palpitations, nausea, diarrhea, bloating, fluid retention, weight gain, oily skin and acne and greasy or dry hair. Many women suffer from PMS symptoms for decades without realizing they needn't be in such discomfort each month. Diet, exercise and estrogen-based contraceptives can all influence the frequency and severity of PMS symptoms. Identifying the correct lifestyle changes to minimize PMS symptoms is the first and best management strategy. Herbal remedies, nutritional supplements and medication for relief, particularly in severe cases, are other paths to take in managing the numerous and varied symptoms of PMS.
