Treatments for PMS

In addition to dietary changes, milder PMS symptoms can be alleviated by simple lifestyle changes, primarily through exercise and reducing stress.

Exercise
During a workout, levels of chemicals called beta-endorphins rise. These chemicals positively impact mood and behavior. Experts say that exercising at least three times a week can reduce anger and depression and fight stress during PMS.

Stress Reduction
Although stress doesn't cause PMS, it can worsen its symptoms. Relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga are often effective in relieving stress.

Medications
When diet, exercise and stress reduction aren't enough to alleviate symptoms, medications may be needed. Over-the-counter medicines, such as those containing acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin), can relieve cramping and other minor aches and pains. Some medications are marketed specifically to women experiencing PMS symptoms. These medications, which include Midol and Pamprin, typically include a combination of aspirin or acetaminophen for pain plus diuretics. Diuretics prevent water retention to relieve bloating. For women with PMDD (see below), antidepressant drugs such as sertraline hydrochloride (Zoloft) and fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem) can alleviate depression. In severe cases, birth control pills can be used to stop ovulation completely.

PMDD
 The irritability, bloating and food cravings that occur with PMS cause many women great discomfort each month. But anywhere from 3 to 5 percent of menstruating women experience a more severe form of PMS, called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). While experts often debate the validity of the distinction between PMS and PMDD, it is nonetheless diagnosed in a small number of cases.

To be diagnosed with PMDD, a woman must experience at least five PMS symptoms during the period between ovulation and menstruation, and one of the five symptoms must be:

  • markedly depressed mood
  • noticeable anxiety or tension
  • sudden sadness or tearfulness
  • persistent anger or irritability
The other symptoms can include:
  • lack of interest in activities
  • lack of energy
  • change in appetite
  • insomnia or fatigue
  • headache
  • joint or muscle pain
  • bloating
  • weight gain
  • breast tenderness
Some doctors recommend a variation of the antidepressant drug Prozac, called Sarafem, to treat some of the emotional symptoms of PMDD.

For more information on PMS and related topics, check out the links on the next page.