Symptoms and main treatments for premenstrual syndrome

• PMS can affect women of any age, although it is most common among women between 20 and 40 years of age.
• In the late 1800s and early 1900s, you could go to a pharmacy and find hundreds of herbal extracts for sale. 
• At the time, more than 90 percent of the population knew how to use medicinal plants growing in their backyards to treat common illnesses and injuries; they had to do this because it was practically the only “cure”.

What and how can you relieve and reduce PMS symptoms?

Unlike drugs, which typically work through a single mechanism, such as targeting bacteria, herbs work synergistically to address underlying imbalances in your body that can lead to disease.

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The use of plants as medicine is one of the only forms of healing that is accepted by every culture and ethnicity and has been around since ancient times and is still used in much of the world. This is the oldest healing system on the planet.

I used to view herbs, in many cases as an alternative to drugs, as useful for treating various symptoms but not treating the underlying cause. I have since revised my opinion significantly and now understand that herbs can help support your health from a very basic level, just like foods can.

1. There are many health complaints that can be helped by herbal remedies, and among them, of course, is premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
2. What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
3. Premenstrual syndrome describes a group of symptoms that can occur one to two weeks before a woman's period. Symptoms vary greatly in severity and type, but may include:
4. 
5. Fluctuating hormones that occur during your menstrual cycle are thought to be the main cause of PMS , although chemical changes in your brain may also play a role.
6. Low levels of certain vitamins and minerals are associated with PMS, and stress and depression can worsen symptoms.
7. PMS can affect women of any age, although it is most common among women between 20 and 40 years of age.

It is also more likely to occur in women who have given birth to at least one child, have a family history of depression, or have had postpartum depression or another mood disorder. It's also an incredibly common problem, affecting at least 85 percent of menstruating women.

• 
• 15 Herbs to Calm PMS
• PMS symptoms can be mild or severe, they can be just an inconvenience or they can significantly reduce your quality of life.
• Many women turn to over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve symptoms, and some even go so far as to use birth control pills to stop ovulation (which tends to reduce PMS symptoms), but they carry risks of side effects.

Herbal remedies can be very effective as a natural alternative for relieving menstrual cramps and other PMS symptoms. The best options include the following.

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Viburnum bark and plum-leaved viburnum

Viburnum bark (Viburnum opulus) can help reduce muscle cramps and is often used to relieve menstrual cramps. It is known as a uterine relaxant and contains the antispasmodic scopoletin.

According to tradition, viburnum bark is especially useful for menstrual colic that radiates to the lower back or thighs.

Tori Hudson, a professor at ND, NCNM and Bastyr University, recommends taking 1/2 teaspoon of Viburnum bark tincture every two to three hours or 1/4 teaspoon of Viburnum plumfolia tincture every two to four hours.

1. Black Cohosh
2. Black cohosh is traditionally used to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, but is also known to have a relaxing effect on the uterus. According to Hudson, who recommends a tincture of 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon every two to four hours:
3. “If premenstrual irritability and restlessness, slow or irregular menstrual cycles or scanty bleeding are associated with menstruation, then black cohosh is especially indicated for menstrual colic.”
4. Red raspberry leaf
5. Red raspberry leaf is known for its tonic effects on the reproductive system, and it can help soothe the uterus and relieve menstrual cramps when taken regularly.
6. Dong Quai

Dong quai is traditionally recommended for dysmenorrhea or painful menstruation. It acts like estrogen in your body and can help improve uterine tone.

Dong quai may be especially beneficial when combined with other herbal remedies. According to the American Botanical Council (ABC):

“Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition that can be treated with herbs...

Women suffering from PMS (approximately one-third of all women between the ages of 30 and 40) have a common hormonal pattern of increased plasma estrogen levels and decreased plasma progesterone levels shortly before the onset of menstruation.

... PMS can be effectively managed with dong quai, chasteberry, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa).

• The latter two plants contain phytoestrogens (which act like estrogen in the body), which are believed to have a tonic effect on the uterus.”
• Wild yam
• Wild yam is popular for relieving menopausal symptoms, but it is good for PMS, helping the uterus work efficiently during menstruation, and also prevents colic and uterine spasms.
• Reishi

Medicinal reishi mushroom, known as Lingzhi in China or "spirit plant". It is also called the "Mushroom of Immortality" - a nickname that says it all.

Reishi has been used medicinally in Asia for thousands of years and helps boost the effectiveness of your immune system, among other benefits. It can help combat the fatigue and weakness associated with PMS and has relaxing properties for women who feel irritable or nervous.

Valerian

Valerian is known for its calming effects and may therefore be helpful for mood swings associated with PMS, insomnia and irritability. It is also sometimes used for gastrointestinal colic and can help soothe uterine spasms. Valerian, used in conjunction with viburnum bark, may be especially helpful in relieving both colic and mood swings.

Tori Hudson, ND explained:

“Valerian contains an important class of compounds called valepotriates and valeric acid, which are found exclusively in this perennial plant native to North America and Europe.

It's not hard to see how Valerian can help relieve pain, anxiety, and insomnia because both valepotriates and valeric acid are able to bind to the same receptors in the brain as Valium. Although Valerian's effect on menstrual cramps has not been scientifically studied, it has a relaxing effect on spasmodic contractions of the intestinal muscles.

Both the uterus and intestines are smooth muscles. In clinical practice, Valerian is usually an important complement to an alternative approach to painful menstruation."

Vitex vulgare

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is traditionally used to relieve menstrual problems, including premenstrual syndrome. A systematic review found a significant reduction in PMS symptoms in women using chasteberry compared to those in the placebo group.

Additionally, women suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a more severe form of PMS, have also been helped by chasteberry.

Dandelion

Natural Progesterone

Progesterone is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body that is essential for various vital functions. In women, progesterone balances estrogen hormones and is produced primarily by the ovaries during ovulation.

Women approaching menopause produce lower and often insufficient levels of progesterone. Moreover, in our culture, even women in their childbearing years tend to produce greater amounts of estrogen.

1. Natural progesterone (bio-identical to the progesterone your body produces) can help balance estrogen hormones to relieve PMS symptoms as well as normalize your menstrual cycle.
2. 
3. Chamomile

Chamomile tea increases glycine levels, which helps calm muscle spasms. Glycine is also a nerve relaxant, which may explain why chamomile is also effective for relieving stress and anxiety. Traditionally, chamomile tea is recommended to calm menstrual cramps.

poppy

Maca is a tuber from the radish family that helps restore hormonal balance. For women, maca may help reduce PMS symptoms, and it is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it can help support your body during times of stress, promote emotional well-being, and support a healthy mood.

Motherwort

Useful for stimulating uterine tone, motherwort may also help reduce uterine muscle spasms and colic. Motherwort is also used to relieve stress and heart-related symptoms due to anxiety. Motherwort has been listed among the Chinese herbs that have been suggested to relieve PMS according to the Cochrane Systematic Review:

• “Chinese herbal medicine has been used for centuries in China and is currently used in public hospitals in China to treat primary dysmenorrhea [painful menstruation].
• The review found promising evidence of the benefits of using Chinese herbal medicine to reduce menstrual pain in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea compared with traditional medicine such as NSAIDs and oral contraceptive pills, acupuncture and heat compression."
• Fennel seeds
• Fennel seed extract has been shown to reduce the severity of PMS, including significantly reducing symptoms of premenstrual tension.
• Women who took fennel seed extract three days before their period and up to three days after it ended said the drops helped them feel less depressed and be productive at work, and made it easier to communicate with friends and family, according to research published on annual conference of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.
• Saffron
• Women who received 30 mg of saffron extract per day (15 mg twice daily) during two menstrual cycles reported a 50 percent reduction in the severity of PMS symptoms.
• 
• What else works to relieve PMS symptoms?
• If PMS symptoms, including painful menstrual cramps, are affecting your quality of life, there are a number of safe and natural strategies to consider.

• Evening Primrose Oil: Contains the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is beneficial for pain relief. Also helpful in restoring abnormal hormonal physiology that may contribute to PMS symptoms.
• DIM (diindolylmethane): DIM is a naturally occurring phytochemical in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. It has unique properties that allow it to alter estrogen metabolism, promote optimal estrogen balance, and support healthy progesterone and testosterone production.

The severity of PMS symptoms in women is related to increased estrogen, with symptoms becoming more severe as estrogen increases. DIM has a hormone-balancing effect and may benefit conditions such as PMS, which are associated with an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone.

• Acupuncture: A review of 27 studies found that acupuncture may relieve menstrual cramps better than medications or herbs by stimulating the production of endorphins and serotonin in your central nervous system.
• Diet changes: Diet changes can be very helpful in relieving colic and other PMS symptoms. You can also try:
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks
• Reduce sugar intake
• Avoid smoked cheeses, meats and fish (as they can increase fluid retention)
• Make sure you get enough nutrients in your diet , especially vitamin B6, manganese, vitamins A and E, calcium, magnesium, omega-3 animal fats and tryptophan
• Exercise: This is another useful tool that helps relieve menstrual cramps, possibly because it increases the levels of endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that are associated with pain relief.
• Heat: Using a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen or soaking in a warm bath can provide temporary relief from menstrual pain.
• Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy using lavender has been shown to relieve premenstrual emotional symptoms, which is attributed, at least in part, to improved parasympathetic nervous system activity.

published econet.ru. If you have any questions on this topic, ask them to the experts and readers of our project here

© Joseph Mercola

PS And remember, just by changing your consciousness, we are changing the world together! © econet

Source: https://econet.ru/articles/179686-pms-15-naturalnyh-sredstv-dlya-oblegcheniya-simptomov

Diagnosis and treatment methods for premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome is a set of symptoms that develop in some women in the period before the start of a new menstrual cycle. It manifests itself in the form of vegetative-vascular, psycho-emotional and endocrine disorders, and has an individual course. Signs of the syndrome cause discomfort and make negative changes in a woman’s existing lifestyle.

Reasons for appearance

Premenstrual tension syndrome, so named by Robert Frank, was first explained by psychophysiological causes in a paper published in 1931. Until this time, there was no clear understanding of the etiology of the phenomenon in gynecology, although attempts to explain the periodic ailments of women before menstruation have arisen since ancient times.

The syndrome occurs in the second half of the cycle after ovulation. A mature follicle ruptures and an egg is released. If it combines with a sperm, pregnancy occurs. During gestation, as well as during the period after childbirth and lactation, ovulation does not occur. However, menstrual syndrome may persist.

The prerequisites for the occurrence of a symptom complex are largely individual and depend on the characteristics of the woman’s body. In addition to objective physiological phenomena that determine the manifestations of the syndrome, lifestyle becomes an important factor.

Thus, with an unfavorable lifestyle, the manifestations of PMS become more pronounced and worsen. Premenstrual ailments do not affect reproductive function and women's health in general.

Some experts regard such conditions as the norm.

In general, the causes of unpleasant phenomena during the period of tension before menstruation are as follows:

• Hereditary predisposition.
• Imbalance (lack) of certain vitamins and microelements in the body (vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, zinc).
• Hormonal causes: imbalance, malfunctions of the hormonal system, problems with the thyroid gland.
• Renal dysfunction.
• Previous gynecological operations, abortions, childbirth.
• Infections of the genital area.
• Stress and anxiety.
• Psychophysical predisposition.
• Sedentary lifestyle.
• Taking oral contraceptives (as a side effect of some of them).
• Excessive physical and mental stress.
• Excess weight.
• Tobacco smoking and consumption of other harmful substances.
• Traumatic brain injuries.

As a rule, the prerequisite for the occurrence of unpleasant symptoms is a combination of several factors.

In some cases, the symptom complex does not appear before the start of the cycle, but immediately after it. This phenomenon is called postmenstrual syndrome and, in addition to the fact that it manifests itself at other times, is no different from the signs of PMS in women.

Characteristic symptoms

The manifestations of the syndrome are individual and largely depend on the reasons that provoked it. In the case of PMS development in women, symptoms can be grouped into main groups:

• Manifestations of a neuropsychic nature.
• Symptoms of a crisis.
• Edema signs.
• Headache.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms

Manifestations of this group are based on the relationship between the functioning of brain structures and mental processes. Neuropsychiatric signs are as follows:

• sleep disorders;
• dizziness;
• apathy;
• increased nervous excitability;
• impaired concentration;
• depressive states;
• weakness;
• sensory organ disorders;
• memory impairment.

In addition, this group of disorders includes lack of appetite, problems in the gastrointestinal tract, increased sensitivity of the mammary glands and their enlargement.

Crisis manifestations

They are characterized mainly by disturbances in the functioning of the body's cardiovascular system. With this form there are:

• changes in blood pressure;
• tachycardia;
• slight increase in body temperature;
• pain in the heart area;
• panic states.

This form of manifestation of the syndrome is the most dangerous, but occurs less frequently than others.

Edema

A frequent manifestation of the syndrome is fluid retention in the body. In this regard, decreased urination, swelling in the extremities (especially the lower ones) and face, and weight gain (due to water in the tissues) are observed. Skin itching, indigestion, and increased sweating may occur.

Most often, these symptoms occur in women of early reproductive age.

Headache

Otherwise called cephalgic manifestations, considered the most severe symptoms of the syndrome, are characterized by headache, increased auditory and olfactory sensitivity, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and numbness of the upper extremities.

Premenstrual syndrome, the symptoms of which can be completely individual for different women, can be treated symptomatically.

Diagnosis of PMS

Diagnosis of PMS is complicated by the fact that, feeling any ailments, a woman, as a rule, turns to a specialist in the field who treats diseases with similar symptoms.

By prescribing medications to the patient and seeing improvements, the doctor concludes that the therapy is successful. But the relief that comes is a natural process when the cycle moves into the next phase.

Literally a month later, the woman notices the same symptoms of the same or increased intensity.

In the case when the patient keeps a diary in which she notes the phases of her own menstrual cycle and can compare them in time with certain manifestations of ailments, diagnosis is greatly facilitated. In any case, making a diagnosis begins with taking an anamnesis. The fact that the symptom complex is observed with precise cyclicity is fundamental.

Since the signs of PMS are similar to the manifestations of many different diseases, differential diagnosis is important to exclude pathological conditions.

To make a diagnosis, a blood test for hormones is performed before and during a new menstrual cycle. The levels of prolactin and progesterone are compared.

In severe cases of the syndrome, the following examinations may be prescribed:

• electroencephalography;
• mammological examination;
• blood pressure control;
• rheoencephalography;
• neurophysiological examinations;
• analysis of the ratio of fluid entering and leaving the urine.

Effective treatments

When diagnosing premenstrual syndrome, the doctor prescribes treatment with drugs of one or another pharmacological group depending on the form, causes and severity of the symptoms. Therapy includes:

• drug treatment;
• non-drug methods.

Drug therapy

For premenstrual syndrome, treatment with drugs involves the use of drugs that act on the causes and mechanisms of development of pathological conditions, as well as directly affecting symptoms in order to alleviate well-being.

The following groups of drugs are most often prescribed:

• hormones – in case of an imbalance determined by a blood test;
• vitamin-mineral complexes (vitamins A, B6, C, E, zinc, magnesium, potassium, calcium, copper, selenium) affect the endocrine system and metabolism in tissues;
• neuroleptics;
• nootropics.

Non-drug treatment

The following recommendations exist for non-drug treatment:

• massage;
• physical therapy;
• folk remedies;
• acupuncture.

Physiotherapy procedures are considered significant in terms of positive effect, among which aerotherapy, electrosleep, mineral water baths, electrophoresis with vitamin B1 or calcium, and galvanization are used to treat the syndrome.

The above treatment methods can reduce or completely eliminate unpleasant symptoms.

Prevention recommendations

The main point regarding the prevention of premenstrual syndrome is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Precautions include the following:

• Moderate physical activity. Swimming, yoga, Pilates, aerobic training are shown.
• Balanced diet. It is recommended to reduce the salt content in the diet, increase the amount of water you drink per day, consume more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grain cereals, bran), a sufficient amount of protein, and do not abuse simple carbohydrates and fats.
• Taking vitamin-mineral complexes. Vitamins and minerals entering the body with food are often insufficient, so the use of pharmaceutical complexes is indicated.
• Minimizing stress.
• Taking herbal preparations - herbal teas, oil extracts - for general strengthening and health of the female reproductive system.
• Control of hormonal levels.
• Regular examinations with a gynecologist for timely treatment of diseases of the reproductive system.
• Walks in the open air.
• Non-abuse of alcohol, cigarettes and other harmful substances.

Premenstrual syndrome is a complex of symptoms that appear several days before the start of a new cycle in some women. Some experts consider this violation to be largely a social phenomenon. Manifestations of the syndrome, which are physiological and true psychoneurological in nature, can be subject to drug correction and cure.

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Source: https://ProSindrom.ru/gynecology/predmenstrualnyj-sindrom.html

Premenstrual syndrome: how to alleviate the condition?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a complex of symptoms that occurs several days (from 2 to 10) before the onset of menstruation and disappears in its first days. At other times, there are no symptoms of PMS.

The condition includes neuropsychic disorders, vegetative-vascular and metabolic manifestations. Almost every woman has experienced signs of PMS at some point. However, it is severe only in every tenth patient.

How and why premenstrual syndrome occurs

In the middle of the menstrual cycle, ovulation occurs in the ovary - an egg is released from a mature follicle. She begins to move through the abdominal cavity to the fallopian tube to meet the sperm and fertilize. In place of the burst follicle, a corpus luteum is formed - a formation with high hormonal activity. In some women, in response to such endocrine “bursts,” the parts of the brain responsible for emotions, vascular reactions, and metabolic regulation react. Often this individual response feature is inherited from mother to daughter.

Previously, it was believed that PMS occurs more often in women with disrupted hormonal levels. Doctors are now confident that such patients have a regular ovulatory cycle and are otherwise healthy.

Theories of PMS development:

• hormonal;
• water intoxication;
• dysfunction of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system;
• lack of vitamins and fatty acids in the diet;
• hyperprolactinemia;
• allergy;
• psychosomatic disorders.

With PMS, the relative content of estrogens increases with a relative decrease in the level of gestagens. Estrogens retain sodium and fluid in the body, causing swelling, flatulence, headaches, and chest pain.

Estrogens activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, causing additional fluid retention. These sex hormones directly affect the area of ​​the brain responsible for the formation of emotions (the limbic system).

The level of potassium and glucose in the blood also decreases, which causes weakness, heart pain, and decreased activity.

The level of gestagens determines how many days before menstruation PMS occurs. These hormones delay the onset of menstruation. They also determine how long premenstrual syndrome lasts.

As a result of disruption of the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, fluid retention occurs, which causes swelling of the intestinal wall. Abdominal bloating, nausea, and constipation occur.

The development of PMS is facilitated by a lack of vitamins, magnesium and unsaturated fatty acids in food. Some scientists believe that the result is depression, chest pain, irritability, and elevated body temperature.

Of particular importance in the mechanism of development of PMS is an increase in prolactin levels in the second half of the cycle, an allergy to internal progesterone, as well as interrelated bodily (somatic) and mental (mental) changes.

Clinical picture

There are three groups of main symptoms that determine the severity of the condition:

• neuropsychic disorders: tearfulness, depression, irritability;
• vegetative-vascular changes: nausea and vomiting, headache and dizziness, palpitations, pain in the heart, increased blood pressure;
• metabolic disorders: enlarged mammary glands, swelling, bloating, thirst and shortness of breath, itching, chills, increased body temperature, pain in the lower abdomen.

An aggravating factor in PMS is depression. With it, women feel more pain and other unpleasant sensations, which can gradually turn into painful menstruation and migraines.

Forms of premenstrual syndrome

PMS can occur in the following clinical forms:

• neuropsychic;
• edematous;
• cephalgic;
• crisis.

The neuropsychic form is accompanied by emotional disturbances. Young women experience low mood levels. In adulthood, aggressiveness and irritability become the leading symptom.

The edematous form is accompanied by swelling of the legs, face, and eyelids. Shoes become tight and rings don’t fit well. Sensitivity to odors increases, bloating and skin itching appear. Due to fluid retention, weight increases (by 500-1000 g).

In the cephalgic form, the main symptom is headache in the temples spreading to the orbit. It has a twitching, pulsating character, accompanied by dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Most of these women show changes in the pituitary gland.

At the same time, there is a strong heartbeat, a feeling of numbness and coldness in the hands and feet. The crisis usually occurs late in the day and ends with the release of urine in a large volume.

This form is more often observed as an outcome of untreated previous variants.

Flow

When does PMS start? With a mild course, three to four signs appear 2-10 days before menstruation, one or two of which are most pronounced. In severe cases, symptoms appear 3-14 days before menstruation. There are more than five of them, and at least two are pronounced.

The course of PMS is different for all patients. For some, symptoms appear at the same time and stop with the onset of menstruation. Other patients develop more and more symptoms over the years. The condition normalizes only after the end of menstrual bleeding.

In the most severe cases, symptoms persist even after the cessation of menstruation, and the interval without complaints gradually decreases. In such a situation, a woman may even lose her ability to work. In some patients, cyclical ailments continue after menopause.

The so-called transformed PMS occurs.

A mild course of PMS is accompanied by the appearance of a small number of symptoms, mild malaise, without limiting the normal rhythm of life.

In more severe situations, signs of this condition affect family life, performance, and conflicts with others may arise.

In severe cases, especially during a crisis, a woman cannot work and needs to be issued a certificate of incapacity for work.

PMS should be distinguished from other diseases and conditions.

If symptoms occur only immediately before the onset of menstruation, especially in combination with spotting, you need to think about gynecological pathology - endometriosis, uterine fibroids, chronic endometritis.

Diagnostics

PMS is a clinical diagnosis based on an analysis of symptoms, their severity, and cyclical occurrence. An examination by a gynecologist is prescribed, and an ultrasound examination of the genital organs is performed. For proper hormonal therapy, it is necessary to determine the level of sex and other hormones in the blood.

The patient is consulted by a neurologist, and, if necessary, by a psychiatrist, ophthalmologist, and endocrinologist. She may be prescribed tests such as electroencephalography, computed tomography of the brain, ultrasound examination of the kidneys, and mammography.

Only after a comprehensive examination and observation does a gynecologist make such a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

PMS treatment

How to relieve premenstrual syndrome? For this purpose, the following scheme is recommended:

• psychotherapy;
• proper nutrition;
• physiotherapy;
• physiotherapy;
• treatment of premenstrual syndrome with drugs.

Psychotherapy

Rational psychotherapy helps to get rid of such unpleasant symptoms as excessive emotionality, mood swings, tearfulness or aggressiveness. For this purpose, psycho-emotional relaxation techniques that stabilize behavioral techniques are used. A woman is taught how to relieve PMS and is helped to cope with the fear of menstruation.

It is very useful to conduct psychotherapeutic sessions not only with a woman, but also with her loved ones. Relatives learn to better understand the patient’s condition. Conversations with the patient’s immediate circle improve the microclimate in the family. Through psychosomatic mechanisms, it is possible to improve the patient’s physical condition and alleviate the objective manifestations of premenstrual syndrome.

Lifestyle and nutrition

It is necessary to increase the content of plant fiber in the diet. It normalizes intestinal function and removes excess fluid from the body. The daily diet should consist of 75% carbohydrates (mostly complex), 15% proteins and only 10% fats.

The consumption of fats must be limited, as they affect the participation of the liver in estrogen metabolism. It is better to avoid beef, as it often contains small doses of artificially introduced hormones.

Thus, the most useful source of protein for PMS will be fermented milk products.

It is useful to increase the consumption of juice, in particular carrot juice with the addition of lemon. Herbal teas with the addition of mint, lemon balm, and valerian are recommended. Herbal sedative for PMS helps cope with emotional disorders, improve sleep and overall well-being.

You should avoid excess salt and spices, and limit your consumption of chocolate and meat. You should not drink alcoholic beverages, as they reduce the content of B vitamins and minerals in the body, and change the metabolism of carbohydrates. Liver function suffers, which can lead to disruption of estrogen metabolism and increased severity of the condition.

There is no need to take a lot of caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, Coca-Cola) during PMS. Caffeine causes fluid retention, disrupts sleep, and contributes to neuropsychiatric disorders. In addition, it increases engorgement of the mammary glands.

Drugs for the treatment of PMS

If you have severe symptoms of PMS, you should consult a doctor. He will tell you how to deal with its symptoms using medications. Let's consider the main groups of drugs for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome.

1. After examination by a gynecologist, if an increased level of estrogen is detected (absolute or relative hyperestrogenism), gestagens are prescribed. These include Duphaston, Norkolut and others. Gonadotropin-releasing factor agonists, in particular Danazol, also have an antiestrogenic effect.
2. Antihistamines are prescribed due to increased levels of histamine and serotonin in such patients. Tavegil, Suprastin are usually used at night, starting two days before the expected onset of PMS and ending with the first day of menstruation.
3. To normalize the functioning of brain structures responsible for vascular regulation and mental disorders, nootropics are prescribed - Nootropil, Aminalon, starting from the first day of menstruation for two weeks. Such courses are repeated for three months in a row, then take a break.
4. If, after determining hormone levels, an increase in prolactin levels is detected, Parlodel (bromocriptine) is prescribed, starting two days before the expected onset of PMS, for 10 days.
5. In the presence of severe edema, the prescription of a diuretic with a potassium-sparing effect, Veroshpiron, which is an aldosterone antagonist, is indicated. Prescribe it 4 days before the deterioration of health and stop taking it with the onset of menstruation. If edema syndrome manifests itself as headache, blurred vision, it is recommended to use Diacarb.
6. In the presence of pain, the main means for treating PMS are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, in particular Diclofenac. It is prescribed two days before your health worsens. These drugs suppress the synthesis of prostaglandins, biologically active substances that cause many symptoms of PMS. Course treatment is carried out over three months. The effect of this course lasts up to four months after its termination. PMS symptoms then return, but are usually less intense.
7. Excessive emotionality, depressive disorders, and neuroses may be indications for the prescription of tranquilizers. There are special “daytime” drugs that do not suppress normal activity, in particular, Grandaxin and Afobazol. Antipsychotics and antidepressants may be used. Such drugs are prescribed by a psychiatrist. They must be taken continuously for 3-6 months.
8. Vitamins A and E have a beneficial effect on the female reproductive system, including reducing the severity of premenstrual syndrome. They are taken orally or administered intramuscularly for a month, alternating with each other. If anxiety and depressive disorders appear in the second half of the cycle, magnesium and vitamin B6 are prescribed.

PMS treatment is carried out in cycles. In the first three months, diet, herbal sedatives, vitamins, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. Then they take a break from treatment for 3-6 months.

When PMS symptoms return, other drugs with more serious effects are added to treatment. Don't expect a quick effect.

Therapy should be long-term and accompanied by modifications of diet and lifestyle.

Source: https://ginekolog-i-ya.ru/predmenstrualnyj-sindrom.html

Symptoms and treatments for premenstrual syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a whole complex of symptoms that recur cyclically in the second half of the menstrual cycle. It usually develops 7–10 days before the onset of menstrual flow.

According to statistics, 50% of women over 35 years old suffer from premenstrual syndrome. I diagnose this condition in young girls less often, in only 20% of cases.

Also, clinical manifestations of the syndrome often plague emotionally unstable and thin girls.

Causes of premenstrual syndrome

To date, scientists have not been able to fully establish what reasons definitely cause PMS. But there are a number of factors that can trigger the onset of premenstrual syndrome. These include:

• previous gynecological infections;
• hormonal imbalance;
• abortion, trauma or surgery on the pelvic organs;
• stress;
• alcohol abuse, smoking;
• increased production of prolactin;
• pathologies of the thyroid gland;
• poor nutrition;
• lack of calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin B6;
• genetic predisposition;
• overweight;
• excessive physical activity;
• hormonal therapy;
• disturbance of brain activity.

Some scientists suggest that premenstrual syndrome is provoked by several factors simultaneously, and in each specific case they depend on the individual characteristics of the body. This is why diagnosing PMS is often difficult.

Symptoms and forms of PMS

Clinical manifestations of premenstrual syndrome become pronounced several days before menstruation, and with the onset of bleeding they fade or disappear completely. The symptoms of this condition are quite varied and often depend on the form of PMS:

1. Edema form. Clinical manifestations in this case are as follows. Swelling appears on the face, fingers and lower leg area. Additionally, acne occurs, swelling and tenderness of the mammary glands, general weakness, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
2. Psychovegetative form. the patient is accompanied by symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, decreased libido, depression, increased fatigue and sensitivity to various odors.
3. Crisis form. In this case, the woman is susceptible to panic attacks, and fear of death often appears. Additionally, chest pain, high blood pressure, and arrhythmia may appear. PMS of this type usually occurs in patients over 45 years of age who are in premenopause.
4. The cephalgic form is accompanied by headache, nausea, dizziness, fainting and irritability.
5. Atypical form. In this case, women develop symptoms that are completely uncharacteristic of this condition. For example, stomatitis, vomiting, asthma attacks, migraine.
6. The mixed form combines various clinical manifestations. Most often there is a combination of the first two types.

Depending on the number of symptoms, premenstrual syndrome occurs in mild or severe form. In the first case, no more than 5 signs appear, among which only 1–2 are clearly expressed. In the severe stage, more than 5 symptoms are present, most of which are prevalent.

If PMS is accompanied by depression, then the woman will feel pain and other clinical manifestations more strongly.

Diagnostic methods

Before making a correct diagnosis, the doctor carefully listens to the patient’s complaints and draws up a preliminary medical history. The first signal that a woman has premenstrual syndrome. is information about the cyclical nature of clinical manifestations. In other words, symptoms appear a few days before menstruation, and with the arrival of bleeding they disappear.

In order to confirm the diagnosis, it is necessary to take a blood test for hormones such as prolactin, progesterone and estrogen. Depending on the form of the pathology, the amount of hormones in the body may vary.

Also, depending on the type of premenstrual syndrome, the following studies can be carried out:

• if there is swelling or pain in the mammary gland, the patient is additionally prescribed mammography and ultrasound;
• according to the indications of a neurologist, CT and MRI of the brain are performed;
• in case of edema, the woman is prescribed a consultation with a nephrologist;
• for cephalgic and psychovegetative, the patient is consulted by a neurologist or psychotherapist;
• in case of severe pain in the head, the condition of the blood vessels is checked using an electroencephalogram.

As has already become clear, in order to diagnose PMS, in addition to a gynecologist, they resort to the help of such specialists as a nephrologist, neurologist, psychologist and therapist.

Methods for treating premenstrual syndrome

In the treatment of PMS, both drug and non-drug therapy are used. In the first case, treatment can be carried out with the following groups of drugs:

1. If a woman has elevated estrogen levels, she is prescribed a course of medications belonging to the gestagen group (Duphaston, Ustrozhestan). They are taken in the second phase of the cycle.
2. For emotional disorders, non-addictive sedatives help well.
3. If the level of serotonin and histamine is exceeded, the doctor prescribes antihistamines (Tavegil, Suprastin).
4. If severe pain appears during premenstrual syndrome, non-steroidal painkillers are used, for example, Ketanov, Ibuprofen, Diclofenac.
5. For severe edema, medications from the diuretics group are prescribed.
6. To normalize blood circulation in the central nervous system, the patient should take nootropic drugs (Grandaxin, Nootropil).
7. Premenopausal women are prescribed ganadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (Buserelin, Zoladex). Such drugs can suppress ovulation by blocking ovarian function.
8. Excessive production of prolactin is corrected by dopamine agonists (Dostinex, Parlodel).

Homeopathic medicines are often used to treat premenstrual syndrome. They can restore hormonal balance, reduce irritability, mood swings and anxiety. Additionally, the woman is prescribed vitamin B6, calcium, zinc and magnesium.

Depending on how severe PMS is, the therapeutic course can vary from two months to six months. Remember, only a doctor can prescribe medication. Self-medication is dangerous to health.

In some cases, a woman can relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome on her own. To do this, you should follow some simple rules:

1. To live an active lifestyle. Regular physical activity promotes the production of endorphin (the hormone of happiness). But remember that excessive physical activity can, on the contrary, worsen the problem.
2. The diet should include fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, dairy products and dark chocolate. But it’s better to avoid salty foods and strong coffee for a while.
3. You need to sleep at least 8 hours and, if possible, a woman should avoid any stressful situations.

Additionally, you can alleviate the condition with the help of herbal medicine. For example, brew tea with chamomile and lemon balm, make a decoction with mint, or simply take a few drops of motherwort tincture before bed.

For the purpose of prevention, a woman should monitor her weight, give up bad habits, visit a gynecologist for a preventive examination at least twice a year, and have a full sex life.

Premenstrual syndrome is a serious health disorder, and not just a woman’s whims. Lack of timely treatment can lead the disease to a chronic form, provoke severe depression and pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Source: https://zdorovaya-ya.ru/menstrualnyiy-tsikl/predmenstrualnyiy-sindrom-simptomyi-lechenie.html

Premenstrual syndrome. Causes, symptoms, forms and treatment of premenstrual syndrome

PREMENSTRUAL TENSION - manifests itself in various kinds of subjective, less often objective signs and is a pathological symptom complex manifested in neuropsychic, vegetative-vascular and metabolic-endocrine disorders, expressed in most women 7-15 days before the onset of menstruation.

Etiology.

• various provoking factors,
• neuropsychic stress,
• infectious diseases,
• inflammatory processes in the pelvis,
• lack of physical activity,
• childbirth, abortion,
• overwork, etc.  

Pathogenesis.

There are several theories about the development of premenstrual syndrome.

1. Hormonal theory.
It is based on a violation of the ratio of estrogens and gestagens in the body.

The excretion of estrogens in daily urine increases, and, less often, pregnanediol (a product of the metabolism of progesterone and estrogens), and the content of gestagens (progesterone) decreases with a relative lack of function of the corpus luteum.

An increase in estrogen content and a decrease in gestagens causes sodium retention, hence the amount of intercellular fluid increases, which leads to edema.

In the last phase of the menstrual cycle, when the secretion of gestagens increases, tension processes subside and low-grade fever develops.
A number of women experience hypoglycemia. PMS can also be caused by an increase in the amount of prolactin. Hyperprolactinemia can cause headaches and swelling of the mammary glands.

2. Violation of water-salt metabolism.
Theory of hyperadrenocortical activity and increased aldosterone. According to this theory, fluid retention in PMS patients is caused by neuroendocrine disorders, for example, changes in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, resulting in sodium and water retention by the kidneys. .

According to this theory, under the influence of any external factors (stress, infection), the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone by the pituitary gland increases, and the secretion of aldosterone increases.

 Due to increased secretion of estrogen, the level of renin in the blood plasma increases, through an increase in angiotensinogen by the liver, which leads to excess aldosterone. With aldosteronism, sodium is reabsorbed into the renal tubules with potassium loss and fluid accumulation.

Since progesterone is an antagonist of aldosterone, its deficiency may lead to the development of secondary hyperaldosteronism.

3. Theory of Functional Disorders of the Central Nervous System. It should be noted that mental mood and conditioned reflexes also play an important role.

4. Allergic theory.
According to this theory, these manifestations are attributed to Smith menotoxin, which is formed in the premenstrual period - an allergy to sex hormones, functional liver failure, in which the inactivation of estrogens slows down. Hypersensitivity of tissues to normal amounts of estrogens and endogenous progesterone is also possible.

In cases where vaginal smear cytology does not indicate hyperestrogenism, an allergic reaction to estrogen should be considered. To determine an allergy to estrogen, 0.2 mg of estrogen dissolved in 0.1 ml of saline is injected intradermally. The test is considered positive if after 30-40 minutes. a blister forms. For control, a test with NaCl saline solution is given.

• Clinical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• There are several main clinical forms of PMS:

• Psychovegetative form of PMS - depressed mood, irritability, decreased ability to work, depression, tearfulness, sleep disturbance, blurred vision, absent-mindedness, weakness, increased fatigue, mood swings, depression, decreased libido (sexual desire), increased sensitivity to sounds and smells, flatulence, constipation, lower back pain. In others, on the contrary, mental activity increases excessively, sexual desire intensifies, in some cases reaching nymphomania.
• The edematous form of PMS is swelling and pain in the mammary glands, swelling of the face and body, fingers, skin rash, muscle pain, bloating, weakness, sweating.
• The cephalgic form of PMS - headaches, irritability, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting. Headaches can be paroxysmal in nature, accompanied by redness or swelling of the face.
• Crisis form - increased blood pressure, attacks of rapid heartbeat, feelings of compression behind the sternum, and the appearance of fear of death. Panic attacks occur in the evening or at night. The crisis form of PMS is typical for premenopausal women (over 45 years old). The vast majority of patients with the crisis form of premenstrual syndrome have diseases of the kidneys, cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract.
• Mixed form is a combination of several forms of PMS. The most common combination of psychovegetative and edematous forms.

1. With premenstrual tension, chronic diseases often worsen (cholecystitis, colitis, bronchial asthma, joint pain), a tendency to infections, and sometimes epileptiform seizures occur.
2. Objective data are relatively poor: swelling of the mammary glands, slight pastiness, swelling of the face and body, often nutritional glucosuria (functional pancreatic insufficiency).
    
3. The treatment regimen is selected individually, depending on the cause, form and degree of development of PMS.

• Gestagen drugs - Pregnin, Progesterone (Utrozhestan, Duphaston) in the second phase of the cycle,
• Combined contraceptive drugs - combined oral contraceptives (COCs) - Infekundin, Zhanin, Yarina;
• For hyperprolactinemia, dopamine agonists - Parlodel;
• Diuretics. Must be prescribed in conjunction with hormonal drugs;
• Potassium
• Antihistamines are used for allergic reactions - skin itching, rash (Tavegil, Suprastin);
• Homeopathic medicines - Mastodinon and Remens. These are herbal non-hormonal preparations;
• Sedatives , like sedatives, are sleeping pills.
• (NSAIDs) - Diclofenac, Nimesulide, Indomethacin are prescribed as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory , according to the scheme. One of the drugs is prescribed 2-3 days before the cycle and in the first days of the cycle. The use of these drugs in the form of rectal suppositories is very effective.

Source: https://www.medglav.com/ginekologicheskie-bolezni/predmenstrualnyi-sindrom.html