How to Recognize PMS

As many as 40 percent of menstruating women experience some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For most women, PMS is just a nuisance to deal with every month. However, five percent of PMS sufferers have such bad symptoms that they interfere with their daily lives. It's important to be able to recognize PMS symptoms if you want to treat them.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for psychological symptoms such as crying, irritability, sadness, anger and changes in sex drive and mental function. Women suffering from PMS often cry for no reason.

• 2

  Recognize the physical symptoms of PMS. An acne flare can be an indicator of the onset of PMS. Breast tenderness, cramping and food cravings are all physical symptoms of PMS.

• 3

  Keep a monthly diary to record your symptoms. This helps you recognize PMS by noting the dates that the symptoms appear. If you notice that the symptoms start around the same time every month, right before your period, you're likely suffering from PMS.

• 4

  Rule out other conditions that may have the same symptoms as PMS. Tell your doctor what symptoms you're exhibiting, and he can help rule out other conditions.

• 5

  Ask your doctor if there's anything you can do about your PMS symptoms. He might suggest that you try a certain type of birth control or some natural remedies that could ease your symptoms.