Besides bloating, breast pain and irritability, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) can cause mood swings and depression. However, last week a study found supplements containing healthy fats and Vitamin E may ease symptoms. Here DR ELLIE CANNON explains when to get help.

Mood stabiliser; Vitamin E can help with PMS

Some women have such serious physical symptoms that they cannot work. for others, the emotional symptoms disrupt their relationships. any disruption of normal life due to symptoms warrants a consultation. 

The second part of the menstrual cycle is dominated by the hormone progesterone. This hormone lowers levels of serotonin  -  the brain’s happy hormone  -  and causes bloating, breast tenderness and headaches.

Most oral contraceptives do not help with PMS. However, the newer types of combined pill such as Yasmin can help.

Low-dose anti-depressants such as Prozac are used successfully to treat PMS. other prescription remedies are also used, including hormonal patches and higher-dose anti-depressants.

Women notice a reduction in symptoms if they increase their exercise and reduce their weight following a healthy, balanced diet. Vitamin B6 should be started in a daily dose as it can help with mood changes. there is also some research behind using calcium and magnesium supplements and the herb agnus castus.

It is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 40, and seems to worsen with age. It is seen in women whose mothers suffered, as well as those who are overweight and sedentary.

This is not known, but sufferers notice reduction in symptoms by avoiding them.

Diuretics are used in PMS for breast tenderness and bloating. Spironolactone is the diuretic used, but only in specific circumstances where bloating with weight gain occurs in the pre-menstrual time. It is normally taken for one week towards the end of the cycle.