In the United States, about twelve to twenty-five million women of reproductive age are with PMS.
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), is a disorder that develops before the onset of menstrual periods.
The changes in hormone levels during menstrual cycle are the basis for this condition.
With symptoms of PMS, many women monthly experience feelings of fatigue, dizziness, depression, bloating, irritability, and headache. No matter how severe the symptoms are one can find PMS relief with natural approaches and lifestyle changes.
PMS Relief – Natural Herbal Remedies
Women suffering from premenstrual syndrome can have PMS relief with natural herbal remedies.
Dong Quai (Angelica polymorpha) is one of the most widely used herbal tonic for hormonal imbalance. Consuming dong quai daily gives PMS relief, particularly from premenstrual cramping and pain.
St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is the natural anti-depressant and a mood enhancer. It actively relieves from depression, anxiety, irritability and disorders associated with PMS.
Chaste berries, flaxseed oil, parsley, bee pollen, lavender, and primrose oil are other natural remedies for PMS relief.
PMS Relief – Medications
Several medications are available for PMS relief. Anti-inflammatory drugs help to prevent the body from producing hormones that triggers PMS. COX-2 inhibitors are a new type of Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs that help relieve PMS symptoms.
Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used antidepressant medications for PMS relief. Fluoxetine (Prozac) and Sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil) help control feelings of irritability, anxiety and depression in premenstrual syndrome when taken during the menstrual cycle.
Benzodiazepines, Alprazolam are anti-anxiety drugs for alleviating anxiety in some PMS patients. These drugs effectively decrease anxiety by depressing the central nervous system.
Metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn) and spironolactone (Aldactone) are the most common diuretics (medicines) that help to reduce bloating, breast swelling, and weight gain in premenstrual syndrome.
YAZ is an effective birth control pill approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for PMS relief. It controls the emotional and physical symptoms associated with Premenstrual Syndrome.
However, discuss about PMS relief medications with your doctor before using to ensure that it’s appropriate and safe for you.
PMS Relief – Dietary Changes
A high quality Mulit Vitmain diet helps in regulating the menstrual cycle as well as PMS. Nutritionists believe that PMS relief is achievable with dietary changes.
The Key nutrients essential in your diet for PMS relief are Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin E, Calcium, Magnesium, and Fatty Acids. Also, cut back sugar, salt, red meat, coffee, and alcohol for PMS relief to some extent.
PMS Relief – Regular Exercises
One of the best ways to have PMS relief is through regular exercise. Regular exercises provide a deeper effect on hormones. It keeps hormone levels stable. It reduces depression, nervousness, anxiety, and stress. For PMS relief, exercise regularly for 20-45 minutes, thrice a week.
PMS Relief – Yoga
Regular practice of yoga reduces symptoms (anxiety, depression, irritation) associated with Premenstrual Syndrome. Yoga postures decreases pressure on uterus, relieving cramps. The gentle stretching of yoga asana relieves stiffness and tension in the lower back.
American Yoga Association believes that regular meditation, a part of yogic practices, alleviates irritation, nervousness and moodiness.
The yoga exercises stimulate the reproductive systems, keeping balance in hormone levels. So, meditation and relaxation techniques are good PMS relief techniques.
An easy PMS relief technique is to have a warm bath. Studies show that a few minutes of warm bath increases the serotonin levels.
The above natural remedies can help in relieving the symptoms of PMS.
