Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can be literally in the hundreds. These symptoms can differ from person to person and can likewise change every month.
PMS symptoms typically erupt at usually the same time each month in a woman’s menstrual cycle. This can last up to a couple of weeks before her period commences. The symptoms typically get better once a woman’s period starts. They then disappear until the menstrual cycle begins again.
Common symptoms
As mentioned before, PMS symptoms can be in the hundreds. The most common symptoms of this condition can include:
Physical symptoms
- Gain of weight of typically 1 kg
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Breast tenderness
- Joint and muscle pain
- Backache
- Hair and skin changes
- Headaches
- Discomfort and pain in the stomach
- Feeling bloated and edema
Psychological symptoms
- Deflated self-esteem
- Restlessness
- Forgetfulness and confusion
- Concentration difficulties
- Anxiety
- Tearfulness and crying
- Depression
- Feeling angry or irritable
- Mood swings
Behavioral symptoms
- Food cravings or appetite changes
- Loss of interest in sex or loss of libido
PMS can also lead to potential worsening of chronic (long-term) conditions like migraine or asthma.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Whereas a lot of women with PMS conditions may experience uncomfortable symptoms, a small number of women possess symptoms that are so severe that they disrupt their normal lives. They are suffering from a more severe type of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD.
PMDD symptoms may be a lot similar to those of PMS; however, they are more severe and usually come with more psychological symptoms compared to physical ones. PMDD symptoms can involve:
- Severe irritability and tension
- Very poor self-esteem
- Either much less or much more sleeping
- Lower interest in doing daily activities
- Serious anxiety and anger
- Persistent depression or sadness
- Feeling of hopelessness
Since depression is a symptom usually seen in PMDD, some women with this condition have been known to have suicide ideations.
The symptoms of PMDD can be quite difficult to handle since they can be debilitating and can affect a woman’s relationship and everyday life. You need to consult with your doctor if you seem to be exhibiting serious signs of PMDD.
Scott Paglia is a licensed and board certified acupuncturist in Bellingham, WA and provides master level pulse diagnosis, Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture in Whatcom County, WA.