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

Premenstrual Syndrome At A Glance

• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of specific physical and psychological features.
  
  
• Physical features include breast tenderness and bloating.
  
  
• Psychological changes may include anger and depression.
  
  
• PMS occurs in the last half of a woman's menstrual cycle.
  
  
• The exact cause is unknown but is believed to be related to interactions between sex hormones and brain chemicals (neurotransmitters).
  
  
• PMS can be mimicked and must be distinguished from other disorders.
  
  
• The most helpful diagnostic tool for PMS is a menstrual diary.
  
  
• Treatment of PMS includes exercise, a healthy lifestyle, emotional support of family and friends, and medications.
  
  
• Possible for PMS include diuretics, pain killers, oral contraceptives, drugs that suppress ovarian function and antidepressants.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments

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