Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Overview
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Causes
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Treatment
- Self-Care at Home
- Medications
- Other Therapy
- Next Steps
- Prevention
- Outlook
- Support Groups and Counseling
- Authors and Editors
- Viewer Comments: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments
Self-Care at Home
Self care reduces many premenstrual symptoms.
- Dietary strategies may help.
- To lessen bloating and water retention, avoid foods high in salt (sodium), especially in the week before your period.
- Because diet may play a role in symptoms associated with low blood sugar, avoid candy, soda, and other sugary foods, especially in the week before your period.
- An adequate vitamin and mineral intake may also help with PMS symptoms.
- Vitamin E: Studies do not agree about how much vitamin E may be helpful, but 300-400 IU per day is a safe dose that may be of benefit.
- Calcium: Some women get relief being careful to take at least 1,200 mg of calcium per day, through a combination of normal eating and taking supplements.
- Magnesium: Most studies that have evaluated magnesium have failed to show overall benefit. One study of magnesium (200 mg/day) with 50 mg of vitamin B6 showed a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, compared to magnesium alone. Food sources of magnesium include nuts, legumes, whole grains, dark green vegetables, seafood (oysters), and meats.
- Vitamin E: Studies do not agree about how much vitamin E may be helpful, but 300-400 IU per day is a safe dose that may be of benefit.
- To lessen bloating and water retention, avoid foods high in salt (sodium), especially in the week before your period.
- Regular aerobic exercise and relaxation techniques can help to relieve many of the mood symptoms found with PMS. Muscle relaxation techniques and massage therapy may help.
Next: Medications »
Viewer Comments & Reviews
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments
The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:
What kinds of treatments have been effective for your premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
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Premenstrual Syndrome »
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent luteal phase condition characterized by physical, psychological, and behavioral changes of sufficient severity to result in deterioration of interpersonal relationships and normal activity.
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