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Child Health A-Z

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

What is premenstrual syndrome?

Most females experience some unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. For some, the symptoms are significant, but of short duration and not disabling. Others, however, may have one or more of a broad range of symptoms that temporarily disturb normal functioning. These symptoms may last from a few hours to many days. The types and intensity of symptoms vary in females. This group of symptoms is referred to as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Although the symptoms usually cease with onset of the menstrual period, in some females, symptoms may last through and after their menstrual periods.

Who is affected by PMS?

As many as 85 percent of females, during their reproductive years, experience some of the common symptoms associated with PMS. Further, approximately 30 to 40 percent of these females experience symptoms so severe that they disrupt daily activities. It is estimated that less than 10 percent of females have symptoms so extreme that they are considered disabled by the condition. Although PMS typically affects older women, adolescents can experience PMS.

What are the symptoms of PMS?

The following are the most common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. However, each adolescent may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

psychological symptoms
  • irritability
  • nervousness
  • lack of control
  • agitation
  • anger
  • insomnia
  • difficulty in concentrating
  • lethargy
  • depression
  • severe fatigue
  • anxiety
  • confusion
  • forgetfulness
  • decreased self-image
  • paranoia
  • emotional hypersensitivity
  • crying spells
  • moodiness
  • sleep disturbances

fluid retention

  • edema (swelling of the ankles, hands, and feet)

  • periodic weight gain

  • oliguria (diminished urine formation)

  • breast fullness and pain

respiratory problems

  • allergies
  • infections

eye complaints

  • visual disturbances
  • conjunctivitis
 gastrointestinal symptoms
  • abdominal cramps
  • bloating
  • constipation
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • pelvic heaviness or pressure
  • backache

skin problems

  • acne

  • neurodermatitis (skin inflammation with itching)

  • aggravation of other skin disorders, including cold sores

neurologic and vascular symptoms

  • headache

  • vertigo

  • syncope (fainting)

  • numbness, prickling, tingling, or heightened sensitivity of arms and/or legs

  • easy bruising

  • heart palpitations

  • muscle spasms

other

  • decreased coordination
  • painful menstruation
  • diminished libido (sex drive)
  • appetite changes
  • food cravings
  • hot flashes

The symptoms of PMS may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

What causes PMS?

Premenstrual syndrome seems to be related to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, and does not necessary denote disabled ovarian functioning. The following have been suggested as possible causes of PMS:

  • estrogen-progesterone imbalance
  • hyperprolactinemia (excessive secretion of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates breast development)
  • excessive aldosterone, or ADH (hormone that functions in the regulation of the metabolism of sodium, chloride, and potassium)
  • carbohydrate metabolism changes
  • retention of sodium and water by the kidneys
  • hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  • allergy to progesterone
  • psychogenic factors

Preventing premenstrual syndrome symptoms:

For some females, making simple lifestyle changes helps to reduce the occurrence of PMS symptoms. These changes may include some, or all, of the following:

  • regular exercise (three to five times each week)
  • a well-balanced diet
    It is generally recommended that females with PMS increase their intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruit, while decreasing their intake of salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • adequate sleep and rest

How to diagnose premenstrual syndrome:

Aside from a complete medical history and physical and pelvic examination, diagnostic procedures for PMS are currently very limited. Your physician may consider recommending a psychiatric evaluation to, more or less, provide a differential diagnosis (to rule out other possible conditions). In addition, he/she may ask that you keep a journal or diary of your symptoms for several months, to better assess the timing, severity, onset, and duration of symptoms.

Treatment for PMS:

Specific treatment for PMS will be determined by your physician based on:

  • your age, overall health. and medical history
  • extent of the condition
  • severity of symptoms
  • your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
  • expectations for the course of the condition
  • your opinion or preference

Counseling with your physician regarding symptoms can often increase understanding and lead to activities for stress management. Other possible treatments for managing premenstrual syndrome symptoms may include the following:

  • diuretic use prior to the time symptoms are usually noted (to reduce fluid retention)
  • prostaglandin inhibitors (i.e., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen) - to reduce pain
  • oral contraceptives (ovulation inhibitors)
  • progesterone (hormone treatment)
  • tranquilizers
  • dietary modifications
  • vitamin supplements (i.e., vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium)
  • regular exercise
  • antidepressants (or other medications)
Last Update
February 3, 2008
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Last Update
February 3, 2008
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