How to Tell If It’s Just PMS — or Something More Serious

Dr. Liau
廖博士

功能医学

When “It’s Just PMS” Isn’t So Simple

Almost every woman experiences some form of PMS — mild mood swings, bloating, or cramps before their period. But what happens when these symptoms become severe, unpredictable, or start affecting your daily life? Many women brush off their struggles as “just PMS,” when in reality, their hormones could be signaling something more serious. At Q 诊所, we help women uncover the real reasons behind their symptoms and regain control over their health.

Understanding PMS: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of your cycle (1–2 weeks before your period).

Typical PMS symptoms include:

  • Mild cramps or bloating
  • Temporary mood changes
  • Breast tenderness
  • Food cravings
  • Fatigue that resolves after your period starts

These are common and usually manageable. However, when symptoms become intense or long-lasting, they might point to something else.

When It’s More Than PMS

1. PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)

PMDD is a severe form of PMS caused by heightened sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations.
Symptoms include:

  • Intense mood swings or irritability
  • Anxiety or depression before menstruation
  • Insomnia or oversleeping
  • Difficulty concentrating or feeling “out of control”

PMDD often disrupts work, relationships, and overall quality of life.

2. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

If your PMS-like symptoms are paired with irregular cycles, acne, hair growth, or weight gain, you might be dealing with PCOS.
This condition involves high levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance — both of which disturb normal ovulation and hormone balance.

3. Thyroid Imbalance

The thyroid regulates your metabolism and menstrual cycle. Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) can mimic PMS symptoms like fatigue, bloating, and mood changes — but it also causes cold intolerance, hair loss, and unexplained weight gain.

4. Estrogen Dominance or Low Progesterone

When estrogen levels are too high compared to progesterone, you might experience:

  • Heavy or painful periods
  • Breast tenderness
  • Water retention
  • Anxiety or irritability
  • Sleep disturbances

This imbalance is one of the most common — and overlooked — causes of chronic “PMS.”

When to Seek Help

If your “PMS” symptoms are:

  • Severe enough to interfere with your daily routine
  • Lasting more than 10–14 days per cycle
  • Getting worse with age
  • Paired with irregular periods or fertility issues

…it’s time to get tested. These symptoms are not normal — and they’re treatable with the right diagnosis.

How Klinik Q Helps You Decode PMS

Q 诊所, we don’t stop at symptom relief — we identify the root cause. Our process includes:

Lifestyle Tips to Ease PMS Naturally

While professional care is key, small daily changes can make a big difference:

  • Eat more fiber and leafy greens to balance estrogen levels
  • Cut down caffeine and alcohol to reduce mood swings
  • Get 7–8 hours of sleep each night
  • Manage stress through yoga, breathing, or light exercise
  • Track your cycle using an app or journal

Don’t Dismiss What Your Body Is Saying

If your PMS feels like it’s taking over your life, it’s time to look deeper. Hormones are your body’s messengers — and when they’re imbalanced, they speak through symptoms. At Q 诊所, we help women listen, understand, and heal from the inside out.

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