Premenstrual Tension Syndrome
If you have breast tenderness, emotional fluctuations, abdominal swelling, loss of appetite, overeating, sensitivity and depression during the premenstrual period, you may have premenstrual tension syndrome. An estimated 75% of women have some of these complaints. It tends to occur mostly between the ages of 20 and 40. Every time you have a period, there are physical and emotional changes. But you should not let these affect your life. Thanks to advances in recent years, it has become easier to overcome this problem through treatment and changes in your lifestyle.
What are the Symptoms?
- For women with premenstrual tension syndrome, every menstrual period is the most uncomfortable time of their lives. The most common complaints are as follows;
- Weight gain due to water retention
- Abdominal swelling
- Breast tenderness
- Feelings of distress and tension
- Introversion
- Crying spells
- Irritability, anger, fluctuating emotions
- Change in appetite (increase or decrease)
- Difficulty falling asleep, insomnia
- Joint and muscle pains
- Headache
- Fatigue, exhaustion
There are many complaints on the list. But most women have only a few of them. For some women, the pain and discomfort can be so severe that it interferes with normal daily activities. In most women, these symptoms stop when menstruation starts.
Why Does It Happen?
The cause of premenstrual tension syndrome is not known exactly, but many factors are thought to play a role. Changes in hormones are the most important cause. Therefore, it disappears during pregnancy and menopause. Chemical changes in the brain are also said to have an effect. Especially the serotonin molecule, which plays a role in depression, also fluctuates here. Low levels of vitamins and minerals are also thought to have an effect.
When to consult a doctor?
If, despite making lifestyle changes, there is no reduction in your symptoms and they are seriously affecting your life, then you should consult your doctor.
How is the diagnosis made?
There are no examinations or laboratory tests to diagnose premenstrual tension syndrome. Your doctor will know based on your symptoms. Make a note of the start and end times of these complaints during your two menstrual periods. Also remember to note the start and end date of your menstrual bleeding.
How is it treated?
Your doctor may prescribe one or more medicines for premenstrual tension syndrome. How well these medicines relieve your symptoms will vary from person to person. Usually painkillers, birth control pills, depression medication and ovulation suppressants are used.
What do you need to do?
Changes in what you eat, exercise and other approaches can help you cope with premenstrual tension syndrome.
- Eat less and more often. This will prevent bloating.
- Limit salt and salty foods. This will reduce water retention.
- Eat vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
- Choose calcium-rich foods. If you have trouble getting such foods, take calcium supplements.
- Take a multivitamin.
- Avoid caffeine.
- Do not drink alcohol.
- Exercise regularly. Walking, cycling, swimming or aerobics are suitable sports.
- Sleep regularly.
