As a woman, you may be familiar with the symptoms that occur before your period comes. In fact, 90% of women develop symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) at some point in their reproductive years.
Currently, doctors believe that hormonal changes are the underlying cause of menstrual symptoms, but experts have not yet definitively defined how hormonal changes can cause dysmenorrhea or depression.
Moreover, severe premenstrual symptoms do not mean that hormone levels are high or abnormal, which may be related to their sensitivity to changes in hormones.
So, what symptoms may occur before menstruation?
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1. Acne
Acne is a very common problem during menstruation. Adult women are more likely to develop acne than men, and this is entirely due to the action of hormones.
As menstruation is about to begin, elevated hormone levels activate the secretion of sebum, clog pores and cause acne.
2. Breast changes
Breast swelling and tenderness are another common symptom. Similarly, doctors aren't sure exactly what role hormones play here, but these symptoms may be related to high levels of prolactin.
3. Tired but difficult to fall asleep
Fatigue but difficulty falling asleep is a vicious cycle in many women during this cycle. Changes in hormone levels can cause tiredness, but can also disrupt sleep patterns.
In fact, PMS and chronic fatigue syndrome have many of the same symptoms.
4. Spasmodic pain
Abdominal cramps are the most common menstrual discomfort. Unlike many other symptoms, these begin 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation, end with bleeding, and spasms usually last 2 to 3 days.
5. Constipation or diarrhea
As your period approaches, symptoms of the digestive system tend to be severe. May present with constipation or diarrhea.
6. Edema
Moisture buildup is another major problem. This is also caused by hormones, but can be relieved and prevented by eating less salt, eating more fruits and vegetables, and exercising.
7. Headache
Menstrual headaches are associated with changes in estrogen levels. If migraines are prone, they may also occur before menstruation.
8. Mood swings
Mood swings are considered one of the classic premenstrual syndrome features and are also associated with hormonal changes, but it is unclear how specific hormonal changes cause mood swings.
9. Anxiety and depression
Depression and anxiety are doubly linked to PMS. Both conditions exacerbate premenstrual symptoms, while PMS can also cause depression and anxiety.
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