Women with PMS have physical and emotional symptoms that happen 1 to 2 weeks before a menstrual period. They may be:
- Physical symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Cramps
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Headache
- Breast swelling and tenderness
- Muscle or back pain
- Weight gain
- Emotional symptoms:
- Irritability and mood swings
- Problems with focus
- Sleep problems
- Changes in sex drive
- Feelings of hopelessness or loss of control
- Tension
- Confusion
- Restlessness
- Loss of interest in people and activities
- Appetite changes, such as overeating or food cravings
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
(PMDD) is when a woman has very severe symptoms that cause problems with function.
