PMS or premenstrual syndrome is one of the most common conditions that many women experience. It causes several erratic mood and appetite changes as well as acne and other skin problems. No one really knows why this happen, thus making this concern one of the most mysterious ones today. However, continuous study is still being done by professionals.

The Definition

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS has a wide variety of symptoms, including mood swings, tender breasts, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. An estimated 3 out of every 4 menstruating women experience some form of premenstrual syndrome. These problems tend to peak during your late 20s and early 30s. Symptoms tend to recur in a predictable pattern. Yet the physical and emotional changes you experience with premenstrual syndrome may be particularly intense in some months and only slightly noticeable in others.

A more severe form of PMS, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD, also known as late luteal phase dysphoric disorder, occurs in a smaller number of women and leads to significant loss of function because of unusually severe symptoms. The American Psychiatric Association characterizes PMDD as a severe form of PMS in which anger, irritability, and anxiety or tension are especially prominent.

The Causes

PMS remains a mystery because of the wide-ranging symptoms and the difficulty in making a firm diagnosis. Several theories have been advanced to explain the cause of PMS. None of these theories have been proven, and specific treatment for PMS still largely lacks a solid scientific basis. Most evidence suggests that PMS results from the alterations in or interactions between the levels of sex hormones and brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.

However, several factors can contribute to this condition. These are:

• Cyclic changes in hormones. Signs and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome cha