How To Get Rid Of PMS?
What is PMS and why is it such an important topic? First of all, PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome. This would seem to indicate that it is an issue for women. The facts show that nearly all women experience PMS, though a small percentage doesn’t. Research and medical information show that 90 percent of women go through this emotional and physical time. Moods change, unusual fatigue seems common and pain seems like it will never go away.
Some information about PMS states that the causes are not clearly understood. This is true, for the most part, because some women have very mild symptoms while a large number has pain and other symptoms for a week or more. One of the key contributors to PMS is the hormone level in a woman’s body. Brain chemistry may also have a significant effect on the level of PMS symptoms, as will diet and nutritional habits.
What Should You Focus On?
When the time comes to “get rid of PMS” it may be best to focus on specific symptoms: pain, mood changes, depression, anxiety headache, breast tenderness etc. Having a definite target for your plan to get rid of PMS will make it easier to treat the symptoms from the start.
Patience is one of the key tools for getting through PMS, if not for getting rid of it. You may be able to reduce the discomfort somewhat by starting to change your diet immediately. Several small meals should take the place of two or three large meals during the day. Try to limit the amount of sugar and salt you include in your diet. These two items can increase the bloated feeling. It’s probably best to avoid coffee, strong tea and alcoholic beverages as well, to help balance your emotions.
Add some fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet and try to increase the calcium level in your body. This could improve your overall “good” feeling and may increase your energy (if fatigue is one of the symptoms of PMS for you). Exercise helps produce endorphins that provide a general feeling of calm, something that is very important with PMS. Mild pain relievers may help reduce pain and discomfort often associated with this condition.
The Next Level
If your emotions or mood swings are excessive and make it difficult to continue your daily obligations, you may want to consult with a doctor to see if antidepressants or stronger pain medications will help. If PMS causes your skin to develop rash, unusual acne or a similar condition, consider benzoyl peroxide or another treatment that can help reduce these conditions. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about this and other specific symptoms.
If bloating and water retention are serious concerns, try a diuretic. Again, it’s probably best to discuss this with your doctor or with a trusted pharmacist. Add specific vitamins and minerals to your diet, especially calcium, vitamin B6 and vitamin E. You may be able to reduce the problems you have with PMS by avoiding major family or career decisions during this time. Allow yourself to be inactive and calm during this time.
Category: Health, Womens Health