Premenstrual Syndrome usually abbreviated as PMS is a condition, which normally affects women that have regular menstrual periods. The condition is basically caused by hormonal changes, which come in a set and trigger emotional and physical symptoms in the patient. PMS, which lasts for about seven to fourteen days is a condition characterized by irritability, anger, breast tenderness and abdominal cramping.
Hormonal Changes and Stress
Presently, there are no clear causes of PMS, but research has revealed that the hormonal changes that occur just before menstruation begins could be the cause. Insufficient magnesium, B6 and calcium in one’s diet could increase the risk of developing PMS. Women should also get into the habit of regular exercises as lack of exercise can make one develop the condition as well. Stressful conditions are also seen to cause PMS in many women and should be avoided. When women
become stressed their levels of adrenalin and cortisol go up and this results in fatigue and adrenaline is released. Women’s bodies often compensate for the depletion using stimulants that stimulate the Central Nervous System. When the reproductive hormones change then their body’s ability to compensate is compromised shortly. It is also advisable for women to avoid this by including caffeine in their diets.
Fluctuations Serotonin Levels
During the menstrual cycle, a woman’s ovaries generate the hormones known as progesterone and estrogen that are tasked with preparing the uterus to welcome a fertilized egg. Progesterone and Estrogen are the main hormones that cause PMS as they cause a shift in brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Among the common neurotransmitters affected is Serotonin. Fluctuations in the levels of Serotonin cause carbohydrate cravings and depression.
Endorphins
Endorphins are important to feelings of pleasure and pain and Progesterone and Estrogen change the levels of Endorphin resulting in PMS. The Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which is the neurotransmitter involved with the feelings of calm can cause PMS as well if the two hormones causer it to shift. Epinephrine and Norepinephrine are transmitters tasked with influencing a person’s mood and if shifted by the two hormones could cause PMS. Additionally, the two transmitters have a functions associated with the heart rate and blood pressure. Symptoms of the Thyroid Disease are similar to those exhibited during PMS. Therefore, it is advisable for a woman to go for thyroid check if they have any of the PMS related symptoms. Women should also not supplement their PMS treatment with the Thyroid Hormone as it could be unsafe.