What exactly is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
There are more than 150 documented symptoms of PMS, but the number of symptoms seen in the vast majority of patients is much more limited. Some of the most common PMS symptoms include bloating, fatigue, sudden mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, weight gain, headaches, joint and muscle aches, , food cravings and fluid retention. To be considered PMS symptoms, they must occur exclusively in the last 14 days of your menstrual cycle (seven to 10 days, approximately, before your period begins). True PMS symptoms tend to increase in severity as the cycle progresses, are relieved within a few days after the start of the menstrual flow, and are present for at least two to three consecutive menstrual cycles. Cramps are not considered a symptom of PMS, but they can occur in women with PMS. • What causes PMS? No one knows exactly what causes premenstrual syndrome. Estrogen excesses, progesterone deficiencies, vitamin B6 deficiencies, an excess of prolactin (a protein hormone that tri
