Patient's question:
I am a 24-year-old girl and I don't have a boyfriend. This year, since the beginning of the month, I have been emotionally unstable and very irritable. Sometimes I feel like I've had a serious illness, with weakness in all four limbs, and pain in my left breast. What should I do? I am currently at the west gate of Chaoyang Park and I don't know which bus to take to get there. Thank you for answering my question.Doctor's answer:
Premenstrual tension syndrome (PMS) is associated with an elevated ratio of endogenous estrogen to progesterone, leading to excessive or relatively excessive estrogen in the body. This results in water and sodium retention, causing symptoms such as edema and headaches. Additionally, individuals who are prone to stress, irritability, and depression are more likely to develop PMS. This discomfort typically begins 7-14 days before the absence of menstruation and worsens 2-3 days before the onset of menstruation. It is characterized by mental tension, hyperesthesia, irritability or depression, general fatigue, easy exhaustion, insomnia, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and memory impairment. Some individuals may also experience swelling in the hands, feet, and face, lower abdominal fullness, pain, and breast tenderness. These mental symptoms and water and sodium retention symptoms usually disappear or significantly improve after menstruation.First and foremost, it is essential to alleviate mental stress and emotional burdens, approach menstruation with a calm attitude, and strive to remain at ease and relaxed. In daily life, it is advisable to avoid unnecessary mental stimulations, reduce salt intake, maintain a regular lifestyle, and engage in more cultural, recreational, and sports activities, which can significantly alleviate or even eliminate symptoms. For those with more severe symptoms, treatment under the guidance of a doctor in a formal hospital may be necessary.