Most people with premenstrual syndrome experience only a few of the possible symptoms, in a relatively predictable pattern.Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome affecting 3–8% of menstruating women. Causes
While PMS is linked to the luteal phase, the causes of PMS are not clear, but several factors may be involved. Changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle seem to be an important factor, with changing hormone levels affecting some more than others. PMS occurs more often in those who are in their late 20s and early 40s, have at least one child, have a family history of depression, and have a past medical history of either postpartum depression or a mood disorder. Diagnosis
There are no laboratory tests or unique physical findings to verify the diagnosis of PMS. The three key features are:

The chief complaint is one or more of the emotional symptoms associated with PMS. Irritability, tension, or unhappiness are typical emotional symptoms. Symptoms appear predictably during the luteal (premenstrual) phase, reduce or disappear predictably shortly before or during menstruation, and remain absent during the follicular (preovulatory) phase. The symptoms must be severe enough to interfere with the person’s everyday life.Mild PMS is common, and more severe symptoms would qualify as PMDD. PMS is not listed in the DSM-IV, unlike PMDD. To document a pattern and determine if it is PMDD, potentially affected women may keep a prospective record of their symptoms on a calendar for at least two menstrual cycles.
In those with more significant symptoms birth control pills or the diuretic spironolactone may be useful.Up to 80% of women report having some symptoms after ovulation and before the beginning of menstruation, but these symptoms generally do not cause substantial disruption. These symptoms qualify as PMS in approximately 20 to 30% of pre-menopausal women. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of PMS that has greater psychological symptoms. PMDD affects 3 to 8% of pre-menopausal individuals. Antidepressant medication of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors class may be used for PMDD in addition to the usual measures for PMS. Signs and symptoms
More than 200 different symptoms have been associated with PMS. Common emotional and non-specific symptoms include stress, anxiety, difficulty with sleep, headache, feeling tired, mood swings, increased emotional sensitivity, and changes in interest in sex. Problems with concentration and memory may occur. There may also be depression or anxiety.Physical symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle – but not necessarily with PMS, which is symptoms that appear before menstruation, rather than during menstruation – include bloating, lower back pain, cramps in the pelvic area, constipation/diarrhea, swelling or tenderness in the breasts, cyclic acne (acne that appears and disappears at predictable times during the menstrual cycle), joint or muscle pain, and food cravings. The exact symptoms and their intensity vary significantly from person to person, and even somewhat from cycle to cycle and over time.