Did you know that premenstrual syndrome is admissible in some countries in a court of law as partial excuse for violent behavior and crime? It’s no wonder that so much research has gone in to treatments to alleviate sever symptoms of PMS. It is difficult for those who do not suffer from PMS (especially men!) to appreciate how debilitating this condition can be.Women who have premenstrual syndrome (PMS) experience a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that occur each month from 2 to 14 days before their menstrual cycle. The symptoms usually disappear once the cycle begins. PMS may begin at any age and ends after menopause. Approximately 75 percent of women experience PMS to some degree, with 20 to 50 percent finding that symptoms disrupt their daily activities, and 3 to 5 percent becoming incapacitated.
The exact cause of PMS is unknown, the most popular theories include hormonal changes (estrogen excess or progesterone deficiency), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), vitamin B6 deficiency, abnormal metabolism of prostaglandin (hormone-like substances), excessive fluid retention, and endorphin (a substance in the brain that provides pain relief) withdrawal.
Signs and Symptoms
PMS is often accompanied by the following signs and symptoms.
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Abnormal bloating and weight gain
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Breast swelling, tenderness
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Mood swings
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Depression and anxiety
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Skin disorders
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Changes in appetite, food cravings
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Changes in interest in sex
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Headaches, backaches, cramps
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Inability to concentrate, loss of interest in usual activities, confusion
Treatment
Preventive measures and, in some cases, medication and /or natural therapies, are most often used for treating PMS.
Prevention
Reducing stress, increasing exercise, and making dietary changes around the time of menstruation can prevent PMS symptoms from worsening.
Alternative remedies
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Herbal remedies may be helpful in alleviating symptoms. Herbs such as Chaste tree (Vitex agnus castus), black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), milk thistle (Silybum marianum), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root, St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum).
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An experienced homeopath can prescribe a regi men for treating PMS that is designed especially for you. Some of the most common acute remedies are belladonna, Chamomila , borax, calcarea carbonica, nux vomica & pulsatilla.
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Acupuncture is helpful in balancing hormones and reducing symptoms of PMS, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, cramping, and fatigue.
Note: Always consult a qualified naturopath / homeopath before taking any of these remedies. Professional natural health advise is available in Bali at the Holistic Healing Center in Kuta Pauleng Ph.766259
Latest developments
Researchers in the U.S.A. say that a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D might help banish pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
A study conducted at the Massachusetts University compared the diets of 1,000 women with PMS and 2,000 women without PMS. They found that those without PMS appeared to eat more vitamin D and calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, broccoli and cereals, and that blood calcium and vitamin D levels are lower in women with PMS. Earlier studies have reported that calcium supplements appear to ease PMS, but now this new research suggests both calcium and vitamin D might reduce the risk of PMS and may influence levels of the female hormone estrogen. The researchers found after adjusting factors like the woman’s age, how many children she had and whether she smoked, the women with the highest intake of vitamin D and calcium were significantly less likely to have PMS. (ref www.news-medical.net ).
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Kim Patra is a qualified Registered Nurse and Midwife that has been living and working in Bali for almost twenty years. She now runs her own private practice and medical referral service from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any health concerns with you and she may be contacted via e-mail at info@chcbali.com”.
