Premenstrual Symptoms: The Common And The Lesser Known

Unfortunately there is a long list of premenstrual symptoms. Even more unfortunately, pretty much every woman will experience one or more of them at some time or other and many women will experience them regularly. It's all part of the joy of being a woman!

Although PMS is a clinical term used to describe the condition suffered by women whose symptoms cause a disturbance in their ability to function completely normally, our society commonly refers to any symptoms experienced before menses as PMS. In fact, many of the symptoms are so common that joking references are commonly made about the disorder, or women suffering from it.

Almost all women experience physical symptoms, with or without the emotional ones. Hardly a woman in the world has no side effects at all during her period. Some of the most commonly experienced symptoms are bloating, cramping, breast tenderness, acne and headaches.

Some other physical premenstrual symptoms that may be lesser known include joint or muscles pain, fatigue, trouble falling asleep, and worsening of certain existing disorders such as skin problems, respiratory issues (including allergies) or eye problems.

Although physical PMS symptoms can be very annoying, uncomfortable, and in some cases even painful, the emotional symptoms associated with PMS are considered by most women to be even more disruptive and bothersome. The most commonly known and experienced emotional symptoms include irritability, mood swings, depression and stress or tension. Some of the lesser known emotional symptoms of PMS include changes in libido and more severe manifestation of some of the previously mentioned symptoms.

Some of the most severe premenstrual symptoms occur in women who suffer from PMDD or premenstrual disphoric disorder. Manifestations of depression become severe sadness and despair, and possible suicidal thoughts. Irritability turns more frequently to anger. Mood swings may range from complete apathy to temper outbursts to tears etc. Commonly the woman feels that she has lost control of her emotions.

On any level, premenstrual symptoms are bothersome, and every woman must deal with them the best they can. For some this means just coping with symptoms and getting through the week. For others it will certainly require some other measures such as improving diet, reducing the intake of sugar, caffeine and alcohol, all of which can contribute to emotional instability. Getting good regular exercise is a natural way to enhance your mood and reduce stress.

If you have worked on your personal health and still experience problems, you can try over the counter PMS medication, or see your doctor about determining the severity of your case and finding an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Although it's unlikely to reduce your symptoms, it is helpful to know that you're not alone in experiencing premenstrual symptoms! This is one of the things that ties women with a common bond. Rest assured that many of the women around you, friends, family and perfect strangers alike know just what you're going through.

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