Teenage Pre-menstrual Syndrome - Symptoms & Remedies to Relieve

"You are raising a teen, so get used to the mood swings, the irritable tone, and the sullen face", said Sreeja's neighbor. "You have spoiled her to no end" is what granny had to say. Just to be sure, Sreeja turned to Dr. Google, who diagnosed her chirpy 14-year-old with a form of depression she had never heard of.

Perhaps Dr. Google was right since the teen's bad moods were getting bad enough to disturb the family's peace and throw life out of gear, only to return to normal within a few days. Thankfully, someone knew better. Her gynecologist explained that the symptoms pointed towards Premenstrual Syndrome. Sreeja's immediate reaction was "She is only 14, I never thought she could get PMS."

From that day, the family's monthly roller coaster rides became a little easier. Read on to find out how PMS affects teenagers, and what you can do to help your teenage daughter.

What Is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

PMS or Premenstrual Syndrome is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms many women experience before the onset of the monthly menstrual cycle.

1. Hormonal Changes: Although the real cause of PMS is not completely understood, experts believe that hormonal changes at the time of ovulation are the prime culprit
2. Lack of Awareness: PMS in young girls mostly goes unrecognized, mainly because most symptoms are dismissed as teenage tantrums. As a result, not many teenagers or their families get to know that they may be experiencing PMS

Signs & Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

What are the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? As most mothers reading this piece would agree, many a time PMS can cause completely irrational behavior. If your daughter has PMS, she may experience one or more of the following symptoms...

• Angry outbursts
• Mood swings
• Feeling low for no apparent reason
• Crying without reason
• Wanting to stay aloof
• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• Difficulty in concentrating at school
• Fatigue
• Inability to sleep
• Inability to handle stress
• Bloated stomach – her regular jeans won't fit
• Craving for certain foods, unusually high appetite
• Binge eating
• Back pain, stomach cramps, sore breasts
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Acne

Since many of the above symptoms are similar to common teenage behavioral issues, it is important for parents to observe and detect if there is a pattern to the child's behavior. This will help you be sure if she indeed has PMS. 

Don't Underestimate These Point Of Views

More often than not, our male counterparts dismiss PMS as a 'figment of imagination' or an excuse for justifying bad mood. In the past two decades, several studies have supported the existence of PMS. Statistics show that 85% of all women, including teenagers, experience some degree of PMS in their lifetime. In fact, some experts believe that men may also experience moodiness owing to hormone fluctuations, however, in women, it can be tracked easily due to the monthly cycle.

Remedies to Deal With Pre-menstrual Syndrome?

Thankfully, PMS is a passing storm – a problem that can be dealt with more easily if the family acknowledges and understands the problem. Here are some simple home remedies to help your daughter to relieve symptoms of PMS. [Know: Tips To Get Rid Of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome(PMS) Bloating]

"Now that you have told her about PMS, she will start expecting it every month". Quips daddy. "We will deal with it. A parent's job is never over, is it!" answered Sreeja, relieved that she now had a better grip on the situation.

1. Track Periods: Teenage periods are not as regular, therefore, keeping a record of your daughter's monthly menstrual cycle dates and the occurrence of symptoms will help you plan ahead
2. Healthy Diet: Restricting the intake of processed foods and junk snacks may help since these have been known to alleviate PMS symptoms.
   • It might help if your child can avoid caffeine (colas and coffee) as caffeine can aggravate anxiety
   • Excessive salt, sugar and spicy food may be avoided
3. Exercise: Studies have shown that exercise and physical activity is very helpful in relieving PMS
4. Relaxing Enough: Stressful situations may be avoided as much as possible as it may aggravate your child's PMS
5. Medication on Doctor's Prescription: Over-the-counter medication may be taken for cramps – after consulting with your doctor
6. Lots of TLC: As with any other crisis, your support will act as an anchor for your daughter and will help her cope better
   • Ginger: Ginger water or ginger tea may be taken to relieve bloating, fatigue and nausea. Ginger may also help ease menstrual cramps
   • Calcium intake: Foods rich in Calcium (milk, cheese, curd, broccoli, nuts, spinach, fortified juice) and Potassium (banana, apricots, potato, broccoli, soybean, spinach, papaya, fish, beans) are recommended
   • Massages: Head massage and deep breathing can help relax your child
   • Relaxing activities: Music, painting, meeting friends, change of surroundings can help alleviate mood
   • Carb intake: Eating complex carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, whole wheat foods, whole grains) will help sustain your child energy levels and keep her feeling full for longer
   • Small, frequent meals: Eating 5-6 small meals through the day helps to reduce bloating and uneasiness

Does your teenage daughter experience these symptoms of PMS? How do you help her deal with it? Let us know in the comments section!