PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AND PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER
DEFINITION
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are common problems experienced by women in their reproductive years. You may have some or all of the following symptoms:
A.Cravings for food, particularly chocolate and salty foods.
B.Irritability.
C.Feelings of depression; crying spells.
D.Bloated stomach.
E.Weight gain and water retention.
F.Difficulty concentrating.
G.Tiredness.
H.Feelings of faintness.
I.Occasional clumsiness.
J.Sore breasts.
CAUSE
Although the cause is really not known, PMS is a response of your body to the changes in female hormones during the last half of your menstrual cycle.
PREVENTION
All of your symptoms probably cannot be prevented, but some of them may be made less severe.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.Keep track of your symptoms for at least 3 months so that your healthcare provider can determine if the symptoms always happen in the last half of your cycle.
B.Eat six small meals each day. Eat breakfast, have a morning snack like fruit or a glass of milk, eat lunch, have an afternoon snack, eat supper, and then have another evening snack. This helps keep your blood sugar even, to avoid low blood sugar.
C.Avoid candy, desserts, and other sugars. They may be associated with episodes of low blood sugar. Complex carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes, fresh fruit, rice, and bread break down more slowly than sweets and keep your blood sugar steadier.
D.Stay away from salty foods such as chips, fast food, and pickles.
E.Avoid caffeine in soda, coffee, and chocolate. Caffeine makes you irritable and nervous.
F.Exercise daily. It is a good idea to do aerobic exercises or even walk. Exercise increases chemicals in your brain that help with your mood.
G.Join a PMS group so that you can get support from other women who have similar symptoms. You may get ideas of how other women handle PMS, and you can share your ideas, too.
H.If you smoke, try to cut down or quit.
I.Get a good night’s rest and take naps during the day if possible.
J.Try stress reduction classes or yoga. Local community organizations usually have classes available.
Medications: There are a number of medications available that your healthcare provider may suggest for you.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Have Also Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Call the Office If:
A.You have questions or concerns.
B.You feel that things are not improving.
C.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
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