Treatment
Many treatments have been used to relieve symptoms. No one treatment has been found to always be effective for all symptoms. Treating one or two symptoms may improve the whole syndrome. Treatments include:
Stress Management
Stress may be managed through lifestyle changes. Relaxation techniques, deep breathing, massage , music, and hot baths can also help reduce stress .
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes may be helpful. They include decreasing intake of salt, sugar, and caffeine . Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, cola, diet sodas, and chocolate. Eating small, frequent meals may also help.
Vitamins and Minerals
The following vitamin and mineral supplements might reduce PMS symptoms:
Regular Exercise
Research suggests that women who engage in moderate activity suffer less PMS-related symptoms than sedentary women.
Medications
Diuretics can reduce bloating and fluid retention.
Prostaglandin inhibitors, such as Motrin , can relieve cramps, headaches, and muscle aches.
Combined oral contraceptives (containing estrogen and progesterone) may help physical symptoms linked to PMS. You may need to try several brands before finding one that helps. Progesterone alone (without estrogen) may also help some women.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are a type of antidepressant medication that affect the level of serotonin in the brain. Women who have severe PMS may find relief with SSRIs. *¹ Examples of this type of medication include:
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Citalopram (Celexa)
Sexual Activity With Orgasm
Sexual activity (including masturbation) may relieve aching muscles and sluggish circulation. It moves blood and fluids away from congested organs.
Psychotherapy
Women with severe PMS symptoms may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy . Therapy may reduce negative emotions and enhance problem-solving skills in relationships. It may also manage obstacles, frustrations, and discomfort.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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