PMS Vs. Pregnancy Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms and pregnancy symptoms share similar indications, and to an extent that it becomes somewhat difficult to establish an apt difference between the two. However, the effect of the symptoms generally varies for every women. About 85% of women suffer from PMS symptoms at one time or the other, and it is a natural trait of the menstrual cycle. Women at their late 20s and early 30s are known to be the most vulnerable. Basically, premenstrual syndrome is referred to as a combination of physical, psychological and emotional symptoms of the menstrual cycle, that tend to have an effect on work, relationships with others, or the sense of well-being. These symptoms range from being mild to severe ones. Pregnancy symptoms also depend upon an individual and on the pregnancy.

PMS symptoms

The symptoms of premenstrual syndrome may seem to be more intense in some months while less in others. The prominent symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include swelling and tenderness of the breasts, abnormal weight gain, bloating and water retention. Women also suffer from abdominal cramps, joint or muscle pain, headaches, constipation or diarrhea, fatigue, and acne outbreaks. In some women, PMS symptoms also cravings for salty, sweet or sour foods, decreased sexual interest, and lower back pain. These PMS symptoms are the physical ones that tend to affect most women.

Now let's have a look at the emotional and behavioral symptoms. Irritability, tension and dysphoria (abnormal depression and discontent) are the most prominent symptoms that seem to occur in almost all women. Apart from these, anxiety, aggression, frequent mood swings, crying spells, hopelessness, decreased presence of mind and reduced concentration are also a part of the PMS symptoms in women. Other symptoms may also include sleep disorders, alcohol intolerance, hives, edema, asthma, sinus problems and sore throat.

Pregnancy Symptoms

The symptom which significantly indicates the occurrence of a pregnancy is a delay or a miss in the menstrual cycle. Earliest pregnancy symptoms include implantation bleeding, swollen and tender breasts, and fatigue or tiredness. Morning sickness is also a well-known symptom of expecting mothers and it generally occurs 2 - 8 weeks after conception. However, this symptom may not occur in all women. Lower back aches, headaches, increased frequency of urination, heartburn, feeling faint, cravings for sweet or sour foods and the darkening of the skin around the nipples known as areola are also some normal symptoms. Abdominal bloating, mood swings, stress and at times aversion to certain smells of food may also occur during pregnancy.

PMS Symptoms vs Pregnancy Symptoms: Treatment

Here are some general tips which help in the treatment of PMS. Women are advised to follow a regular schedule of exercise, reduce consumption of caffeine and salt and most importantly, to quit smoking and drinking. As far as medicines are concerned for treating PMS, herbal medications are preferred more, due to their lesser side effects. When it comes to addressing the pregnancy symptoms, some medications may have undesired effects on the growing fetus. So, in any case, it's wise to consult a doctor and get the required professional advice and help for whatever condition you are suffering from.

So as we can see, PMS and pregnancy share quite a few similarities and in some cases it may be tricky for the person to determine what she is suffering from. Although this article is to help you to diagnose the condition you are suffering from, nothing beats a doctor's advice.