$Unique_ID{BRK01018}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{What is the Cause of Premenstrual Syndrome?}
$Subject{premenstrual syndrome discussion}
$Volume{N-23}
$Log{
The Menstrual Cycle*0009101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is the Cause of Premenstrual Syndrome?


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QUESTION:  Although all my doctors have agreed with me that I suffer from
premenstrual syndrome, I still can not seem to get a straight answer on its
cause, or any agreement on its treatment.  It is very frustrating to have the
same set of problems each month with no relief in sight.  Perhaps you have
some of the answers so many of your readers need.  How about it?

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ANSWER:  It seems as though you may have been making the rounds, and have now
become aware that the frustration with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is not the
patient's alone, but affects the medical profession as well.  Though the
magazine articles you may be reading seem to provide a clear definition of the
problem, our medical literature is just not that helpful.  The discussions of
the syndrome are controversial and incomplete, and though the pattern of
symptoms and complaints are well described, the causes and the cures still
elude the researchers.  We know that PMS is characterized by the monthly
presence of physical, psychological and behavioral symptoms that include
depression, anxiety, feeling out of control, anger, irritability, and even the
craving for certain foods, like chocolate and sweets.  Physical complaints
include bloating, painful breasts, swollen ankles, headache, fatigue and even
acne.  The symptoms may range from mild to disabling, and it is believed that
from 70% tom 90% of women of reproductive age have some, regular premenstrual
symptoms.  Although the cause of PMS is still unknown, many physicians believe
it is caused by many factors, and may be made worse by certain environmental
and emotional situations.  While a variety of medications may be used to treat
specific symptoms, perhaps it may be more helpful to know that you are not
dealing with imaginary problems, and that neither mental illness or cancer is
a factor.  Relaxation techniques are useful during stress days, aerobics have
proven helpful, and some dietary changes such as salt reduction, elimination
of caffeine, alcohol and nicotine sometimes provide positive results.  Of some
small consolation is the fact that symptoms tend to disappear as you reach the
late 30's and early 40's.  You also might try to stick it out with one
physician managing your problems, and resolving your problems, symptom by
symptom.  It is a more rational approach than the course you are now on.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
