The symptoms may last from 3-14 days each cycle. A hallmark of PMS is that the symptoms disappear completely for at least two weeks each month. While it is unclear what causes PMS, it is known only to occur in women with functioning ovaries. The cyclic production of estrogen and progesterone that occurs between puberty and menopause is certainly tied to the development of symptoms. Prostaglandins may also play a role.
Most treatments center around self-help techniques including exercise, diet and stress management.
The key dietary changes are the reduction of salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol intake. Unfortunately, this is not fail-proof and some women may even experience an increase in PMS symptoms. GnRH agonists potently suppress ovarian function, but because of side effects, are appropriate only for severely afflicted women. Women who suffer from depression may find relief from anti-depressant medications such as Prozac. Anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax have also been used in certain cases.