Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Expert Care for Quick Relief

The exact cause is unclear, but hormonal changes before menstruation and brain chemical fluctuations are major factors.

• Estrogen and progesterone levels drop before periods, triggering PMS symptoms.
• Low serotonin and vitamin deficiencies may worsen symptoms.
• PMS symptoms usually disappear after menstruation starts.

PMS risk factors include:

• High stress levels
• Too much caffeine or alcohol
• Lack of physical activity
• Poor sleep
• Family history of depression

Foods that worsen PMS: Excess salt, sugar, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, spicy food, and red meat.

PMS symptoms vary from mild to severe. Some women barely notice changes, while others find it difficult to perform daily activities.

• Mild PMS: Slight mood changes or bloating
• Severe PMS: Disruption in work or social life, extreme mood swings

Certain factors increase the likelihood of severe PMS symptoms.

• Age between 21 and 45 years
• High-stress lifestyle
• Lack of regular exercise
• Smoking or excessive alcohol use
• Family history of mood disorders

PMS symptoms include physical, behavioral, and emotional changes before your period.

• Cravings for salty or sweet foods
• Appetite fluctuations
• Insomnia or poor sleep
• Bloating and facial swelling
• Breast tenderness and pain
• Headache, back pain, and joint pain
• Acne breakouts
• Mood swings, irritability, crying spells
• Depression, anxiety, or tension
• Trouble concentrating or memory lapses

PMS can worsen pre-existing conditions in about half of the affected women.

• Depression and anxiety disorders
• Migraines and chronic fatigue syndrome
• Asthma or allergies
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Bladder pain or ulcerative colitis

PMS is diagnosed based on symptoms that appear consistently before menstruation for at least 2 cycles. Doctors may rule out thyroid and mental health disorders.

• Symptom diary for 2–3 months
• Blood tests to rule out other conditions

PMS cannot be cured completely but lifestyle changes can reduce severity.

• Drink plenty of water to reduce bloating
• Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol
• Sleep at least 8 hours daily
• Exercise regularly
• Practice stress reduction (yoga, meditation)
• Take supplements like folic acid, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D

Medications are prescribed when symptoms severely affect quality of life.

• Pain relievers for headaches and cramps
• Diuretics to reduce bloating
• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Herbal supplements (black cohosh, evening primrose oil)
• Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medicines in severe cases

Natural remedies can help ease PMS symptoms effectively.

• Warm baths to reduce muscle tension
• Yoga and gentle exercise for mood stabilization
• Limit processed food and eat a fiber-rich diet
• Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger tea

Consult a doctor if PMS symptoms interfere with daily life or if you suspect PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder).

• Severe depression or anxiety before periods
• Extreme fatigue or physical pain
• Symptoms lasting beyond your menstrual cycle

ICD-10 Codes for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

CPT Codes for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Q1. What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

Ans. PMS refers to a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur 1–2 weeks before a woman’s menstrual period, including mood swings, bloating, headaches, and fatigue.

Q2. What are the common symptoms of PMS?

Ans. Symptoms include irritability, mood changes, bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, food cravings, and mild fatigue. Some women may also experience anxiety or depression.

Q3. How do I know if I have PMS?

Ans. If symptoms such as irritability, cramps, and bloating consistently occur before your period and improve after menstruation starts, you likely have PMS. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis.

Q4. What causes PMS?

Ans. PMS is mainly caused by hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. Stress and lifestyle factors can worsen symptoms.

Q5. How can I manage PMS naturally?

Ans. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, reducing caffeine and salt intake, stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, and adequate sleep can help manage PMS symptoms.

Q6. What is the best medication for PMS?

Ans. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce cramps and headaches. Severe PMS may require hormonal treatments or antidepressants, as advised by your doctor.

Q7. How to reduce PMS-related mood swings?

Ans. Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and consider relaxation techniques. In severe cases, your doctor may suggest medication or therapy.

Q8. Can PMS cause anxiety or depression?

Ans. Yes, PMS can lead to emotional symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or mild depression. In extreme cases, it may indicate PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder).

Q9. How long does PMS last?

Ans. PMS symptoms typically begin 5–10 days before menstruation and resolve within a few days after your period starts.

Q10. How is PMS different from PMDD?

Ans. PMDD is a severe form of PMS that causes intense emotional symptoms like severe mood swings, depression, and anxiety, affecting daily life. It requires medical attention.

Q11. Can diet affect PMS symptoms?

Ans. Yes, reducing sugar, salt, caffeine, and alcohol while increasing calcium-rich foods, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help ease PMS symptoms.

Q12. Does exercise help with PMS?

Ans. Yes, regular physical activity boosts mood, reduces stress, and improves blood flow, helping to reduce PMS symptoms like cramps and fatigue.

Q13. Is PMS a sign of hormonal imbalance?

Ans. PMS is primarily due to natural hormonal fluctuations, not necessarily a hormonal disorder. However, if symptoms are severe, consult a doctor for hormonal evaluation.

Q14. Can PMS worsen with age?

Ans. PMS symptoms may become more severe during perimenopause due to fluctuating hormone levels, but this varies from person to person.

Q15. When should I see a doctor for PMS?

Ans. If PMS symptoms severely impact your daily life, cause depression, or do not improve with lifestyle changes, consult your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.