How to Know When PMS Bloating is Serious

PMS is the butt of a lot of jokes. If a woman is having a bad day, she must be "PMSing". If she's cranky, uh oh, it must be "that time of the month". But, PMS isn't a funny or light hearted thing. It is a very real disorder. Bloating is an especially annoying and problematic part of PMS. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

• 1

  Track your symptoms. It's helpful to write down the changes to your body every month, before your cycle begins. This way, you can discuss your symptoms with your doctor.

• 2

  Know when your symptoms are extreme. Nearly all women bloat during their menstrual cycle. For some, it can add on an extra 8 to 10 lbs. of unwanted water weight. Weigh yourself during PMS. If you gain a lot of weight, call your doctor.

• 3

  Be educated. You already know that PMS often brings on irritability, depression, anxiety and tension. Those are the emotional symptoms. Physically, symptoms can range from headache, fatigue and slight abdominal swelling, to migraines, severe cramping and an inability to function normally.

• 4

  Take a natural diuretic. Bloating can cause your stomach, ankles, feet and breasts to swell so much that clothing and shoes won't fit. This does nothing for your self-esteem. A natural and safe diuretic is probably what you need to look and feel better.

• 5

  Monitor your feelings. There is a serious form of PMS called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) that brings about serious depression, anxiety, tension, and irritability. Those symptoms combine with at least five of PMS's physical symptoms. If this describes you, see your doctor immediately.