Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a name for all the symptoms you may experience during the time leading up to your period. These can be physical symptoms or psychological (emotional) symptoms. The symptoms come back every month, sometimes worse than the times before, sometimes less bad. This can be different every month. The severity and type of symptoms will also differ per woman. Almost every woman experiences some symptoms before their period. For example, most women often have breast tenderness, mood swings or headaches. This is very normal and doesn’t mean you have premenstrual syndrome. However, you may be suffering from PMS if the symptoms are so severe that you’re hindered in your daily activities. You will experience symptoms which will go away once you've had your period during the weeks leading up to your period. After that you’ll have no more symptoms for at least a week.
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There are many different symptoms which form part of premenstrual syndrome. These can be both physical and mental symptoms which can hinder your normal functioning.Physical symptoms you may experience include:
- Sensitive breasts
- Headache
- A bloated feeling
- A swollen belly
- Swollen limbs (fluid retention)
- Pain complaints
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Trouble concentrating
- Reduced appetite
- Increased appetite
- Confusion
- Tantrums
A healthier lifestyle can help to reduce the symptoms for many women. The best thing you can do for a healthier lifestyle is:
- A healthy diet
- Plenty of exercise
- Sleeping well
You can contact your GP if you experience symptoms in your daily life which hinder you in your work or activities and the above advice hasn’t helped. He or she can look for possible solutions to reduce the pain or symptoms together with you. He or she can help you to deal with your symptoms differently, or possibly prescribe medication to relieve the pain.
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