Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome
Masters recommend that all women with PMS start by keeping a menstrual diary, making lifestyle changes, and using home PMS treatment measures. After a few menstrual cycles, you should notice some improvement in symptoms. Whether or not you then decide to add medication treatment, be sure to continue helping your body weather its premenstrual days by:
Taking daily calcium (1200 mg) and vitamin B6 (50 mg to 100 mg). Both of these nutrients affect the hormone-producing endocrine system. Calcium is strongly linked to PMS symptoms and relief. Although research and expert opinions are mixed, daily vitamin B6 is thought to improve PMS depression and physical symptoms. Reducing your caffeine, refined sugar, and sodium intake, at least during the premenstrual phase of your cycle. These substances are linked to emotional and physical PMS symptoms, such as insomnia, tension and anxiety, food cravings, pain, and bloating.4Getting regular exercise. Exercise is proven to reduce depression. Women often report that exercise helps relieve tension, pain, and mood-related PMS symptoms.
Exercise
Exercise is very useful for hormones, including those involved in the menstrual cycle. Women should experience less anger and depression, which worsens PMS symptoms. Exercise also reduces stress. Women, especially those who experience PMS, are encouraged to exercise regularly, 20-45 minutes, 3 times a week.
Nutrition
How dietary changes affect PMS. Some studies show that drinking tea and increasing carbohydrates during the weeks preceding menstruation is helpful. Carbohydrates increase the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin.Some nutritionists recommend vitamins, especially vitamin B6. Reducing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine, refined sugar, salt, dairy products, and animal fats may also be beneficial. A professional nutritionist or dietician can advise women on dietary changes that may relieve symptoms.
Stress reduction
Stress reduction can help lessen PMS symptoms. Physical trainers and physical therapists can help women involve exercise and movement into their lives. A counselor or therapist can provide advice on decreasing stress as well.
Medication
When exercise, diet, and other lifestyle changes have not helped, medication may be effective. Alprazolam may alleviate depressive and anxiety symptoms in some patients. It is taken orally and can be addictive. Fluoxetine reduces PMS symptoms when taken during the menstrual cycle. It can increase the risk for osteoporosis and should be used only for a short time.
Click here to read about the symptoms of PMS