LIFESTYLE NEWS - The endocrine system makes hormones that control, among others, the menstrual cycle. The female endocrine system is very complex.

Medical experts do not fully understand why normal hormone changes cause PMS in some women and not others.

Most women first get PMS in their mid-20s, but it becomes more common in women in their 30s and may worsen as you approach 40.

PMS is tied to hormone changes that happen during your menstrual cycle.

After menopause, when hormones are low and no longer rise and fall each month, women do not have PMS.
Most women have tender breasts, bloating and muscle aches a few days before they start their menstrual periods. These are normal premenstrual symptoms. But when they disrupt your daily life, they are called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS can affect your body, your mood, and how you act in the days leading up to your menstrual period.

Not getting enough vitamin B6, calcium, or magnesium in the foods you eat can increase your chances of getting PMS. High stress, a lack of exercise and too much caffeine can make your symptoms worse.

Common physical signs include:

• Bloating
• Swollen and tender breasts
• Lack of energy
• Headaches
• Cramps and low back pain
• Feeling sad, angry, irritable, or anxious
• Being less alert
• Having trouble focusing on tasks
• Withdrawing from family and friends

PMS symptoms may be mild or strong and vary from month to month. When PMS symptoms are severe, the condition is called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). But PMDD is rare. It's important to make sure that your symptoms are not caused by something else, like thyroid disease.

A few lifestyle changes will probably help you feel better.

Eat a variety of healthy foods, especially foods rich in calcium. Include whole grains, protein, low-fat dairy, fruits and vegetables.

Get plenty of exercise.

Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, chocolate and salt.

For pain, try aspirin, ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory medicine.

Talk to your doctor if these changes do not provide some relief from your symptoms after a few menstrual cycles. He or she can prescribe medicine for problems such as bloating or for more severe PMS symptoms. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can relieve both physical and emotional symptoms. Low-oestrogen birth control pills may help relieve severe PMS or PMDD.

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