In this Article

• What is premenstrual syndrome?
• How common is PMS?
• When was PMS discovered?
• What causes PMS?
• What are the symptoms of PMS?
• How is the diagnosis of PMS made?
• What conditions are like PMS?
• How is PMS distinguished from other conditions?
• What treatments are available for PMS?
• What medications are used to treat PMS?
• Can exercise help relieve some of the symptoms of PMS?
• Is there a "cure" for PMS?
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments
• Premenstrual Syndrome Glossary
• Premenstrual Syndrome Index

What conditions are like PMS?

Some examples of conditions that can mimic PMS include:

• depression,
  
  
• cyclic water retention (idiopathic edema),
  
  
• chronic fatigue,
  
  
• hypothyroidism, and
  
  
• irritable bowel syndrome.

How is PMS distinguished from other conditions?

The hallmark of the diagnosis of PMS is that symptom-free interval after the menstrual flow and prior to the next ovulation. If there is no such interval and the symptoms persist throughout the cycle, then PMS may not be the proper diagnosis. PMS can still be present and aggravate symptoms related to the other conditions, but it cannot be the sole cause of constant or non-cyclic symptoms. Blood or other tests may be ordered to help rule out other potential causes of symptoms.

Another way to help make the diagnosis of PMS is to prescribe drugs that stop all ovarian function. If these medications produce relief of the troublesome symptoms, then PMS is most likely the diagnosis.

What treatments are available for PMS?

The treatment of PMS can sometimes be as challenging as making the diagnosis of PMS. Various treatment approaches have been used to treat this condition. Some measures lack a solid scientific basis but seem to help some women. Other treatments with a sound scientific basis may not help all patients.

General management includes a healthy lifestyle including:

• exercise;
  
  
• family and friends can provide emotional support during the time of a woman's cycle;
  
  
• avoid salt before the menstrual period;
  
  
• reduce caffeine intake;
  
  
• quite smoking;
  
  
• reduce alcohol intake; and
  
  
• reduce intake of refined sugars.

All of the above have been recommended and may help symptoms in some women. Furthermore, some studies suggest that vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium, and magnesium supplements may have some benefit.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments

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