Macaroni Health
PMS-“Craving chocolate? Feeling emotional? Find out why…â€
By Dr. Golish , DO Virginia Physicians For Women
July 18, 2014
“Craving chocolate? Feeling emotional? Find out why…”Have you recently missed out on something in your life because you were getting ready to start your period and you were bloated, tired, and irritable? If so, you may suffer from Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS! Many women have physical or emotional symptoms before they start their period, but not all have PMS. With PMS, the symptoms that are experienced will lead to some form of interruption of your life: whether it be your home, work, school, or even social life.Despite the fact that the true cause of PMS is still unknown, there has been an association with hormonal shifts, which occur before the menstrual cycle starts. The diagnosis of PMS is made when symptoms occur within 5 days before the cycle, occur for at least 3 cycles in a row, end within 4 days of when the cycle starts, and interfere in some way with daily activities.Symptoms of PMS can be physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive. The most common physical symptoms are bloating, fatigue, breast tenderness, and headaches. Some emotional symptoms include mood swings, and feeling depressed, sad, or anxious. Behavioral or cognitive symptoms include lack of interest in activities, increased appetite, and food cravings.There are a variety of ways that PMS can be treated. Some of which you can try prior to even seeing your doctor! Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your symptoms. Some examples are changes in your diet and exercise. Avoidance of salt, chocolate, caffeine and alcohol is shown to have benefit. You can also try to eat small meals made up of complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and vegetables. Relaxation in the form of exercise, yoga, or even massage can be helpful. Supplements such as Magnesium, Calcium, and Vitamin B6 can also be used.When lifestyle changes are still not enough, this is when you should see your doctor! The medications that are used to treat significant PMS symptoms are actually anti-depressants. Your doctor may also prescribe you a birth (or hormonal) control pill that either shortens your periods or makes you only have your period every three months.The most important thing to remember about PMS, is that you are not alone! Many women have PMS. So talk to your mother, sister, friend, or doctor about it!
Dr Golish can be contacted here call 804-897-2100 or schedule an appt Here
