Question : I AM a 42-year-old woman who have been suffering from premenstrual syndrome for many years. Lately, it has gotten more serious. One week before the menstrual period, I suffer from tender breasts, bloated stomach, giddiness, thirst, less appetite and fatigue. What is the main cause of these problems? How do I prevent them from happening monthly?

Answer : PMS is a collection of physical and emotional symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle. Symptoms typically appear in the week before menstruation begins and disappear as soon as it starts.

Although most women experience some physical and emotional changes during their pre-menstrual phase, only about 40 per cent have symptoms that require treatment. The problem is classified as severe for 10 per cent of the cases.

The main cause of PMS is hormonal imbalance. The two main sex hormones are oestrogen and progesterone, both of which are made in the ovaries. They control various changes in your body, including those in the uterus during the menstrual cycle and may affect your physical and mental health.

Eat wisely, as an improper diet can aggravate PMS. Avoid foods high in saturated fats. A diet of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains is desirable.

Increase fluid intake and avoid stimulants such as coffee, caffeine and carbonated beverages. Abstain from alcohol.

You may supplement your diet with vitex and evening primrose oil in combination for synergistic effect.

Evening primrose oil helps to regulate the sensitivity of target organs to hormonal changes.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) in evening primrose oil helps dampen the hypersensitivity effects of body tissues towards normal levels of prolactin.

Working hand in hand with evening primrose oil, vitex helps to balance the progesterone and oestrogen levels, thereby regulating the menstrual cycle and alleviating pre-menstrual symptoms.

Calcium and magnesium are two important minerals in nerve impulse conduction, especially if associated with headaches, menstrual cramps or spasms.

A study has shown that women who supplemented their diets with calcium had an overall reduction of 48 per cent in severity of PMS symptoms.

Moderate exercise, preferably in the fresh air, may improve your condition. Manage stress wisely through yoga, massage or other relaxation techniques.

Way to overcome PMS woes

Beneficial herbs for women

Easing menstrual pains

Evening primrose for hormonal imbalance

A taxing period

Heavy periods and acne

Menstrual woes

Higher menstrual cycle

Menopause and sex

Think 'natural' for a smooth transition

Let the air out of hot flashes

4 unique ways to chase away symptoms

Cognitive Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba

Managing Cyclical Breast Pain

Panax Ginseng for Reduced Fatigue, Insomnia and Depression in Postmenopausal Women

Black Cohosh for Menopausal Relief

The countdown to menopause

Premenstrual Symptoms