Symptoms
PMS often includes both physical and emotional symptoms, such as:
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Acne flare ups
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Swollen or tender breasts
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Feeling tired
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Trouble sleeping
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Upset stomach, abdominal bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea
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Headache or backache
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Appetite changes or food cravings
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Joint or muscle pain
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Trouble with concentration or memory
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Tension, irritability, mood swings, or crying spells
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Anxiety or depression
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Weight gain
Causes
The exact cause of PMS is unknown, but it seems to be related to the fluctuating levels of hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, that occur in preparation for menstruation. Some other possible causes may include:
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Low levels of vitamins and minerals
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Eating a lot of salty foods, which may cause you to retain (keep) fluid
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Drinking alcohol and caffeine, which may alter your mood and energy level