Most women, at some time or other, will experience symptoms stemming from pre-menstrual Syndrome, or PMS. This includes cramping, mood changes, bloating, skin changes and fatigue. However, these are not symptoms that a woman must suffer through, says the Global Healing Center. There are many remedies to treat and reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with PMS. Cramping can be mild to severe and many women will find relief by using medication or natural ways to provide relief.
Diet
Incorporating a healthy diet can help ease the pain and discomfort caused by PMS and the resulting cramps. Mother Nature advises cutting out sugary and salty foods and instead eating several small meals every day consisting of fruits, vegetables, chicken and fish. Avoiding large and heavy meals can keep the body working better by reducing bloating and fatigue. In addition, a woman is advised to take a daily multivitamin with calcium to be sure her body is getting the daily recommendation of vitamins and minerals. Mother Nature also says that eliminating caffeine will help digestion and reduce nervousness. Avoiding alcohol is also important since it can contribute to water retention, something many women experience during PMS.
Medication
There are several medications that a woman can choose from to help with cramps and symptoms of PMS. Over the counter medicines include aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen for pain. Many women take a diuretic, but Mother Nature says this can flush much needed vitamins and minerals out of the body. The Mayo Clinic says that many women would benefit from a prescription drug to ease symptoms and advises women to speak to their doctor about the options. These can include oral contraceptives or antidepressants.
Exercise
According to the Global Healing Center, women who maintain a regular exercise routine can reduce or eliminate some of their PMS symptoms. Exercise can increase mood and improve circulation as well as provide a sense of well-being. Yoga and Pilates are good choices during PMS and they work well to help with cramps. Also important is to get adequate rest and meditation is a good way to achieve this.
