Many women suffer from PMS (premenstrual syndrome) each month. It is a medical condition that entails both emotional and physical symptoms that affect each woman differently, Women (generally in their 20s through 40s) experience PMS symptoms in the days or weeks before their period. The emotional symptoms are mood swings, irritability, depression, and anxiety. Physical symptoms are headache, breast tenderness, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, skin eruptions and muscle pain. There are many ways to treat severe PMS, so most women will be able to find a method that alleviates severe symptoms.
Instructions
1. Take pain relievers. For headaches, muscle pain and breast tenderness, over-the-counter pain relievers like Aleve, Motrin and Advil can help. There are also drugs that are made to help women suffering from PMS, such as Pamprin and Midol. For best results take these drugs before your period starts.
2. Take vitamins and mineral supplements. There is some evidence that vitamin and mineral deficiencies lead to PMS symptoms. The Mayo Clinic suggests taking daily doses of calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6 and vitamin E. All these nutrients are useful in relieving some of the symptoms of PMS.
3. Modify your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic you "can manage or sometimes reduce the symptoms" of PMS by changing your diet. Eat smaller meals throughout the day to reduce bloating. Reduce the amount of salt you eat to retain less water. Eat more leafy vegetables, fruits and whole grain foods. The fiber is effective in dealing with constipation and diarrhea. Reduce or eliminate alcohol and caffeine, which can trigger symptoms in some women.
4. Take prescription drugs. Doctors prescribe a wide range of drugs to alleviate the symptoms of severe PMS. Antidepressants are usually prescribed that help to deal with fatigue, mood swings and food cravings. Oral contraceptives are also prescribed for severe PMS. The Mayo Clinic writes, "These prescription medications stop ovulation and stabilize hormonal swings, thereby offering relief from PMS symptoms. The Mayo Clinic reports that for severe PMS, some doctors prescribe Depo-Provera. An injection of the drug stops ovulation for a short time, but in some cases the drug also increases the likelihood of other symptoms like depression and headaches.
5. Exercise regularly. The Mayo Clinic states that daily aerobic exercise can "alleviate symptoms such as fatigue and a depressed mood." Swimming, cycling, walking or dancing are good choices.
6. Keep a symptom diary. It helps to keep track of all your PMS symptoms to discover any triggers that may bring about severe PMS. This can help to reduce or avoid certain symptoms. Keep a food diary to discover if certain foods cause PMS symptoms.
7. Reduce stress. For some women, too much stress causes severe PMS. The Mayo Clinic suggests alternative remedies to deal with the symptoms such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga and biofeedback.
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