Premenstrual Syndrome - Highlights

Highlights

Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can produce physical and emotional or behavioral symptoms in the days before menstruation.

Physical symptoms of PMS may include:

• Breast engorgement and tenderness
• Abdominal bloating
• Fluid retention
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Headache and migraine
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Acne
• Muscle and joint aches or pains

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of PMS may include:

• Depression
• Anxiety and tension
• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Change in sexual interest and desire
• Irritability
• Hostility and outbursts of anger
• Mood swings
• Inability to concentrate
• Crying
• Lethargy and fatigue

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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Symptoms

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a specific psychiatric condition marked by severe depression, irritability, and tension before menstruation. For a doctor to confirm a diagnosis of PMDD, the patient must have symptoms during the last week of the premenstrual phase that resolve within a few days after menstruation starts.

Five or more of the following symptoms must occur:

• Feeling of sadness or hopelessness, possible suicidal thoughts
• Feelings of tension or anxiety
• Mood swings marked by periods of teariness
• Persistent irritability or anger that affects other people
• Disinterest in daily activities and relationships
• Trouble concentrating
• Fatigue or low energy
• Food cravings or bingeing
• Sleep disturbances
• Feeling out of control
• Physical symptoms, such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and joint or muscle pain

Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).