Premenstrual Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment And Remedies
3 out of 4 women report symptoms such as anxiety, headache, acne, fatigue or sadness, among others, when menstruation approaches; These cases are known as premenstrual syndrome.
In this article we will analyze the causes and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including its most severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder. We will also detail the treatments and home remedies through which these alterations can be combated.
Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Premenstrual syndrome is defined as a varied set of physical, emotional and behavioral symptoms that appear after ovulationbetween one and two weeks before menstruation. They usually stop after the period starts.
It is estimated that approximately 80% of women have suffered symptoms of premenstrual syndrome at some point in their lives. It is more common to occur after the age of 30in women who have had children or with a history of depression, both personal and family. Symptoms tend to worsen as menopause approaches.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe variant of premenstrual syndrome that affects around 3-8% of women of childbearing age. Unlike premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder is considered pathological in that it interferes with the normal functioning of those who suffer from it.
In 2013, premenstrual dysphoric disorder was included in the DSM-5. This concept of disorder has been criticized by many people who believe that it can have negative consequences for women at a socioeconomic level and that it was invented by pharmaceutical companies to sell medicines. On the other hand, there are those who think that the existence of this diagnosis will increase awareness of the biological bases of this type of symptoms.
Among the most frequent symptoms and physical signs We find the appearance of acne breakouts, fatigue, bloating and abdominal cramps, colic, constipation, diarrhea, headache, back, muscle and joint pain, swelling and tenderness in the breasts, food cravings and weight gain due to fluid retention.
Psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome They include difficulties with concentration, decreased mood, anxiety, tension, insomnia, irritability, aggressiveness, mood swings, crying, social withdrawal, and variations in sexual desire.
Most women who feel symptoms of premenstrual syndrome claim that they only suffer from some of the changes we have mentioned. In general, the pattern of symptom onset is predictable.
In cases of premenstrual dysphoric disorder psychological and emotional symptoms tend to be especially intense; For example, feelings of sadness can become hopeless, and irritability and anger can facilitate the emergence of conflicts with other people.
Causes of premenstrual syndrome
The alterations typical of premenstrual syndrome are related to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, also called ‘postovulation’. During this period the unfertilized egg disintegrates to be later expelled in bleeding.
In the luteal phase, the eggs secrete progesterone, a hormone involved in pregnancy, sex drive, skin tissue regeneration, blood clotting, breast growth, and breast cancer.
It is believed that dysregulation in the production of progesterone and other hormoneswhich variably affects different women, influences the development of premenstrual syndrome. On the other hand, fluctuations in the neurotransmitter serotonin could partly explain symptoms such as fatigue, emotional lability, insomnia and cravings.
Emotional symptoms would be intensified by the presence of stress or depression, while alterations in sodium, mineral or vitamin levels would increase some of the physical signs, such as fluid retention and the resulting abdominal swelling.
There are also hypotheses that affirm that sociocultural factors could also contribute to the appearance of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Treatment and remedies
They are used different medical and psychological treatments, as well as home remediesto reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. There is no treatment specifically indicated for this syndrome, since the effects of hormonal changes are temporary.
Below you can see the most common and effective treatments to relieve PMS symptoms.
1. Changes in diet
Limiting salt intake and large meals can reduce fluid retention, belly bloating, and the feeling of having a full stomach. On the other hand, it is recommended to eat foods rich in calcium and complex carbohydrates. Avoid coffee and alcohol It may also relieve some symptoms.
2. Physical exercise
Do moderate aerobic exercisesuch as swimming, cycling, or brisk walking, is useful for treating fatigue, depressed mood, and weight gain. It is recommended to do sports for half an hour a day at least 5 days a week.
3. Stress reduction
To relieve stress and related symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, irritability and headache, it is effective sleep between 7 and 9 hours each night and do relaxation exercises. Progressive muscle relaxation, slow and deep breathing, yoga and massages are some options supported by research.
4. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can be effective in relieving cramps, colic, and headache, back, and breast pain. Ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac fall into this category of pain relievers.
5. Diuretics
Diuretics such as spironolactone may be recommended to reduce bloating and weight gain caused by fluid retention in cases where exercise and limiting salt consumption are insufficient.
Research has found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine, sertraline, or paroxetine, are effective in treating the emotional symptoms of PMS, although can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Although the effect of antidepressants is more powerful if they are taken daily, for moderate cases of PMS it is usually sufficient to do so during the days before menstruation, when symptoms are expected to occur. Yes indeed, It is essential to have a medical indication to use these products.
7. Hormonal contraceptives
Birth control pills are prescribed in cases of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder in which the physical symptoms are severe. However, the consumption of these drugs may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancer. Likewise, it is necessary to have the corresponding medical indication.
8. Nutritional supplements
Calcium, magnesium, vitamin E and vitamin B6 supplements They can help reduce PMS symptoms, especially breast tenderness, cramps, and fluid retention.
9. Herbal remedies
Among the most used herbal remedies To treat premenstrual syndrome there are ginger, ginkgo, soy, St. John’s wort, chasteberry and evening primrose oil.
It must be taken into account that scientific studies have not supported this type of therapy at the moment, so its effectiveness, side effects and interactions with other drugs are not clear.
