By Dr. Neha Lalla, Gynaecology
PMS, abbreviation for Premenstrual Syndrome, is a condition which affects one’s emotions, behaviour and physical health when one is experiencing her menstrual cycle. PMS affects almost 80% women and results in depression, fatigue and headaches. A woman generally experiences PMS a few days before the menses begin.
Symptoms of PMS include:
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal bloating
- Acne
- Cramps
- Soreness in the breasts
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Excessive food (sugar) cravings
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
Some conditions associated with PMS are:
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)
- Depressive disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Chronic depression
- Chronic distress
However, PMS is a condition which can be dealt with by following certain remedies and methods. Listed below are a few ways in which you can deal with PMS:
- Exercise: Most women find that staying active can help in elevating their mood and fighting the depression they might face due to this condition. Exercising helps in reducing stress and allowing smooth blood blow during the menstruation days.
- Change Your Diet: Eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains is a great option during these days as the complex carbohydrates present in these food items will help in activating a chemical chain reaction which supports mood-enhancing emotions.
- Stress Management: It is important to manage your stress during these days to combat the ill-effects of PMS. You can manage stress by engaging in Yoga, meditation or breathing techniques which help relax your mind and body.
- Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is considered to be a wonderful option which one can avail during the difficult PMS days. Dark chocolate triggers endorphins into your bloodstream (happy hormones) which improve your mood in no time.
- Supplements: You can take Calcium, Omega-3 and Vitamin supplements which have been proven to combat the ill-effects of PMS such as irritability and bloating.