Help! I have PMS!
Ramona M. Whan, L.AC., MSTOM, is an acupuncturist practicing in Wildomar, CA. Ramona evaluates and treats patients based on the concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Acupuncturists complete their evaluations by getting a full patient history, asking questions about the presenting issue, completing a short Western medical... more
Did you know that 90% of menstruating women suffer from symptoms from PMS? About 80% of women report one or more symptoms, but they say it doesn't affect their daily functioning. However, 20-30% of women report moderate to severe symptoms that affect their ability to continue with their daily responsibilities.
Symptoms can begin as early as 11 days before the menses. Both Healthline and Mayo clinic say that the cause of PMS is unknown. It is believed that the change in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause physical pain and mood swings. Fluctuations in the neurotransmitter serotonin are also thought to contribute to premenstrual symptoms such as depression, fatigue, food cravings, and sleep issues.
What I love about Chinese Medicine is that there is always a reason for the symptoms you are having. There are several reasons why one might experience PMS. And, there are several organ systems that can be involved. Such as the lungs, the liver, the heart, the spleen, and the kidneys. In Chinese Medicine, each of these organs has vital energy lines that run through the body. When there is some kind of dysfunction with the vital energy in the line one can have a variety of symptoms.
For instance, if the vital liver energy is stagnant one might experience breast distension, abdominal bloating, irritability, and/or depression. If the lung's vital energy is stagnant one may experience sighing and crying. If the liver energy is too hot one may be prone to outbursts of rage. If the heart energy is too hot one may experience insomnia and anxiety. If the spleen and kidney's energy are deficient one may experience depression, crying, and fatigue.
As an acupuncturist, it is my job to figure out what the reason is for your symptoms. Once we know the reason, the symptoms can be treated with acupuncture points and with Chinese herbal medicine. Both of those treatments are specific to each patient's particular needs. And, I have seen a world of difference in women's lives by using these treatments.
If you are suffering from PMS there is help for you. If you live in the Inland Valley of CA, please call today at 714-588-4291. Treatment can change your life.
