[The premenstrual syndrome]

Premenstrual syndrome is characterized by somatic and psychological symptoms from 5 to 8 days before menstruation and disappearing 34 to 48 hr later. Headache, swelling of breasts, abdominal swelling and weight increase, irritability, fatigue, depression and disturbed personal relations are prominent manifestations. Although hormonal imbalance is invoked in the pathogenesis of the syndrome, there is no agreement regarding specific disturbances. Cultural background greatly influences the clinical expression of this syndrome. A judicious selection of estrogens, progesterone, diuretics, prostaglandin inhibitors, pyridoxine and psychotropic drugs may bring significant relief in most patients.