Premenstrual syndrome: causes, symptoms, treatment and remedies

This set of symptoms occurs in some women after ovulation and can be very annoying.

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 discuss the causes and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including its most severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).. We will also detail the treatments and home remedies by means of which these alterations can be combated.

Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder

The premenstrual syndrome is defined as a varied set of physical, emotional and behavioral symptoms that appear after ovulationThey usually stop one to two weeks before menstruation. They usually stop after the onset of the period.

It is estimated that approximately 80% of women have experienced symptoms of premenstrual syndrome at some point in their lives. It most commonly occurs after the age of 30 yearsIt is more common in 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 about 3-8% of women. affects about 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 conception of the disorder has been criticized by many people who believe that it can have negative socioeconomic consequences for women and that it was invented by pharmaceutical companies to sell drugs. On the other hand, there are those who believe that the existence of this diagnosis will increase awareness of the biological basis of this type of symptoms.

Symptoms and signs

Among the most frequent physical signs and symptoms include the appearance of acne outbreaks, 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.

The psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include difficulty concentrating, decreased mood, anxiety, tension, insomnia, irritability, aggressiveness, mood swings, crying, social withdrawal and variations in sexual desire.

Most women who experience symptoms of premenstrual syndrome report that they suffer from only some of the conditions mentioned above. In general, the pattern of symptom onset is predictable.

In cases of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, the psychological and emotional psychological and emotional symptoms are often particularly intense, e.g., feelings of sadness, anxietyFor example, feelings of sadness may develop into hopelessness, and irritability and anger may facilitate the occurrence of conflicts with other people.

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

The disturbances characteristic of premenstrual syndrome are related to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, also called 'post-ovulation'. During this period the unfertilized egg disintegrates and is subsequently expelled in the bleeding. in the bleeding.

In the luteal phase the eggs secrete progesterone, a hormone involved in pregnancy, sex drive, dermal tissue regeneration, blood clotting, breast growth and breast cancer.

It is believed that dysregulation in the production of progesterone and other hormones, which affects variablywhich variably affects different women, is believed to influence 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 the levels of sodium, minerals or vitamins would increase some of the physical signs, such as fluid retention and the resulting abdominal swelling.

There are also hypotheses that socio-cultural factors may also contribute to the onset of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Treatment and remedies

Various medical and various medical and psychological treatments, as well as home remedies, are used to reduce the symptoms of PMS and PMDD.are used to reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. There is no specific treatment for premenstrual syndrome, as the effects of hormonal changes are temporary.

Below you can see the most common and effective treatments to alleviate the symptoms of PMS.

1. Dietary changes

Limiting the consumption of salt and large meals can reduce fluid retention, bloating and the feeling of having a full stomach. Conversely, it is recommended to eat foods rich in calcium and complex carbohydrates. Avoiding coffee and alcohol can also alleviate some symptoms.

2. Physical exercise

Moderate aerobic exercisesuch as swimming, cycling or brisk walking, is helpful in treating fatigue, depressed mood and weight gain. It is recommended to do sport for half an hour a day at least 5 days a week.

3. Stress reduction

To alleviate stress and related symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, irritability and headache, it is effective to 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night and relaxation exercises.. Progressive muscle relaxation, slow and deep breathing, yoga and massage are some options supported by research.

4. Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective in relieving cramps, cramping, and head, back and sinus pain. Ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac fall into this category of analgesics.

5. Diuretics

Diuretics such as spironolactone may be recommended to reduce swelling and bloating. to reduce swelling and weight gain caused by fluid retention in cases caused by fluid retention in cases where exercise and salt intake limitation are insufficient.

6. Antidepressants

Research has found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine, sertraline or paroxetine, are effective in treating the emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, although they may cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting. can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting..

Although the effect of antidepressants is more potent if taken daily, for moderate cases of premenstrual syndrome it is usually sufficient to take them during the days before menstruation, when symptoms are expected to occur. However, it is essential to have a doctor's prescription, it is essential to have a medical indication to use these products.

7. Hormonal contraceptives

Contraceptive pills are prescribed in cases of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder in which physical symptoms are severe. However, the consumption of these drugs may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancer.. In the same way, it is necessary to have the corresponding medical indication.

8. Nutritional supplements

Supplements of calcium, magnesium, vitamin E and vitamin B6 can help reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms, especially breast tenderness, cramps and fluid retention.

9. Herbal remedies

Among the most commonly used herbal remedies to treat PMS include ginger, ginkgo, soy, St. John's wort, chasteberry and evening primrose oil.

It should be noted that scientific studies have not endorsed these types of therapies at this time, so their efficacy, side effects and interactions with other drugs are unclear.

Bibliographic references:

• Dickerson, Lori M.; Mazyck, Pamela J.; Hunter, Melissa H. (2003). "Premenstrual Syndrome". American Family Physician.
• Ford, O; Lethaby, A; Roberts, H; Mol, BW (2012). "Progesterone for premenstrual syndrome". The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
• Markens, Susan (1996). "The Problematic of 'Experience': A Political and Cultural Critique of PMS". Gender & Society.