Many women feel physical or mood changes during the days before menstruation. When these symptoms happen month after month and they affect a woman's normal life , they are known as Premenstrual Syndrome.

The most common symptoms of PMS are

Depresion, Angry outbursts, Iritability, Crying spells, Confusion, Insomnia, Changes in sexual desire, Thirst and appetite changes, food cravings, breast tenderness, bloating and weight gain, Headache, Swelling of the hands or feet, Aches and pains, Fatigue,Abdominal Pain.

To diagnose PMS, a health care provider must confirm a pattern of symptoms. A woman symptoms must be present in the 5 days before her period for at least three menstrual cycles in a row; end within 4 days after her period starts and interfere with some of her normal activities. Keeping a record of your symptoms can help your health care provider decide if you have PMS. Each days for at least 2-3 months write down and rate any symptoms you feel.

If your symptoms are mild to moderate, they often can be relieved by changes in lifestyle or diet. If your PMS symptoms begin to interfere with your life, you may decide to seek medical treatment. Treatment will depend on how severe your symptoms are. In more severe cases your health care provider may recommend medication.

For many women regular aerobic exercise lessens PMS symptoms. It may reduce fatigue and depression. Aerobic exercisse, wich includes brisk walking, running, cycling and swimming increases your heart rate and lung function. Excercise regularly not just during the days that you have symptoms.

For more questions, contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.