How to Alleviate PMS Symptoms

PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a collection of symptoms experienced by some women before the start of their menses. These include bloating, cramping, moodiness, tenderness of the breasts, depression, irritability, joint pain and tiredness. Some experience none of the above symptoms, while others suffer with several. It is relatively easy to alleviate or eliminate some of the discomfort caused by PMS symptoms.

Instructions

1. Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for cramping. These include ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. They reduce swelling as well as provide pain relief. To supplement, use a heating pad for muscle aches and cramps.

2. Use a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide skin treatment for breakouts. Beginning this treatment a few days ahead of menses to prevent the breakout is helpful. If a breakout occurs, focus a spot treatment with one of the above ingredients on the pimples.

3. Take a diuretic and a multivitamin. A diuretic eliminates excess water weight (bloating) that is a problem during menses. Reduce sodium intake to combat the problem up front. Deficiencies of certain vitamins, such as calcium, vitamin B-6 and vitamin E are the culprit behind many PMS symptoms. Taking a daily multivitamin helps alleviate symptoms due to any lack of nutrients.

4. Reduce caffeine intake and avoid alcohol. Caffeine increases breast soreness and tenderness. During menses, it magnifies this problem. Alcohol is a depressant, so consuming it around when PMS starts is not recommended.

5. Avoid making major decisions and anything too stressful during menses. Since irritability and moodiness run rampant, any major decisions that can be pushed back a week should be, to ensure a rational decision. Most things can wait one week.

6. Participate in some form of aerobic exercise. This lifts the mood, and alleviates some of the physical symptoms of PMS such as joint pain and cramping by getting the blood pumping throughout the body.

7. Talk to the doctor. If PMS is severe, several prescription options are available to help. Birth control helps some women reduce PMS symptoms as well as progesterone only pills or birth control shots. Antidepressants are a good option for severe PMS, or PMDD. A doctor can also order tests to rule out any other health problems, and devise a treatment plan.