The signs and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are seen few days before the menstruation starts. The women experience the physical changes like joint pain, weight gain due to fluid retention, acne flare-ups, abdominal swelling, breast soreness, fatigue, constipation and headache.
The behavioral changes include irritability, tension, depression, social withdrawal, poor concentration, mood swings, anxiety and change in sex drive. Most of the times, signs and symptoms disappear when the menstruation starts. But in some women, physical pains and emotional stress are so severe that it affects their daily activities. Then one needs to seek the medical advice for proper diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome and its treatment.
Diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome is based on screening of signs and symptoms. Correct diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome can be made only when the symptoms occur regularly. The diagnosis for PMS involves the complete medical history, pelvic and physical examination. The doctor asks the patient to keep the records of PMS symptoms for several moths to access the severity, timing, onset and duration of the symptoms. It will help to evaluate the condition of the patient.
There are no specific tests applicable for the diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome. However, a thyroid test is helpful to rule out the problems caused due to thyroid deficiencies. The doctor suggests some blood tests to rule out other disorders responsible for developing the PMS symptoms. Adequate diagnosis of PMS helps the doctor for accurate treatment.
