Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms often include both physical and emotional symptoms.  Common symptoms are:

• Acne
• Breast swelling and tenderness
• Feeling tired
• Having trouble sleeping
• Upset stomach, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
• Headache or backache
• Appetite changes or food cravings
• Joint or muscle pain
• Trouble concentrating or remembering
• Tension, irritability, mood swings, or crying spells
• Anxiety or depression

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms vary from one woman to another. If you think you have PMS, keep track of which symptoms you have and how severe they are for a few months. You can use a calendar to write down the symptoms you have each day or you can use a form to track your symptoms.

What causes premenstrual syndrome symptoms

The causes of PMS are not clear. It is linked to the changing hormones during the menstrual cycle. Some women may be affected more than others by changing hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. Stress and emotional problems do not seem to cause PMS, but they may make it worse.

Diagnosis of PMS is usually based on your symptoms, when they occur, and how much they affect your life.