Problem: Article: Very heavy menstrual flows can be an indication of other problems. It may even lead to its own problems, such as anemia and lethargy. While you track your cycle, keep an eye on what days your flow is heavy, normal, and light. In most cases, you don't need to measure the quantity of blood. Instead, estimate by looking at what type of menstrual products you are using (super tampons, regular pads, etc.) and how often you need to change out those products. If, for example, you have to change a super tampon every hour, you may have an irregularly heavy flow. Keep in mind that most women will have heavier days and lighter days. It is normal to have different levels of flow on different days. The severity of flow varies greatly from person to person. A heavier or lighter cycle isn't inherently problematic. Instead, watch for very heavy cycles or completely skipped periods, which may be an indicator of another medical issue. PMS and PMDD can do anything from make you a little cranky to make it difficult to function. Knowing when these symptoms are most likely to hit can help you better plan and cope. Take note of any extreme mood changes, changes in energy level and appetite, and physical symptoms such as headaches, cramps, and breast tenderness in the days leading up to and during your cycle. If your symptoms are extreme enough that they make daily functioning difficult, contact your doctor. They may be able to help you find a solution or proper management program. If you notice symptoms suddenly happening that you have never experienced before, such as severe lethargy, you may also want to contact your doctor. In some cases, these could be an indicator of a larger medical issue. Different people naturally have different cycles. Your cycle isn't problematic just because it doesn't follow the same pattern as someone else. Sudden or major changes to your cycle, though, are often an indicator of larger medical problems. Contact your doctor or OB-GYN if your period suddenly gets very heavy or disappears completely. You should also contact a medical professional if you experience severe cramping, migraines, lethargy, or depression in the days leading up to and during your cycle. Your doctor will be able to talk to you about your symptoms and run tests as necessary to see if changes in your cycle may be related to medical issues such as endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, thyroid disorders, or ovarian failure, among others.
Summary: Watch your flow. Note changes in your mood, energy, and body prior to and during your cycle. Seek medical help for any sudden, major changes.

Problem: Article: Certain medications and conditions can make it hard to gain weight. If this is the case, make sure you're treating your medical condition. Talk to your doctor to find the right options for you. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without explanation, see your doctor to make sure that you do not have an underlying condition, such as a thyroid or digestive disorder. A registered dietitian can help you design meal plans to help you reach your weight goals in a healthy manner. They can also provide advice about exercising or stimulating your appetite. Ask your doctor to refer you to a registered dietitian. Smoking suppresses your appetite and can affect your sense of taste and smell. Talk to your doctor to discuss strategies for quitting smoking. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a path or pill to help you quit. If you cannot quit smoking, try to avoid smoking for an hour or 2 before you eat a meal. While not the fastest option, strength training is a good idea if you want to keep weight on long-term. Exercise is a good way to whet your appetite. Strength training, in particular, is especially good because it allows you to gain weight by building your muscles. Weight training is a great place to start. You can also do body weight exercises like yoga or Pilates. Avoid too much cardio or aerobic exercise, as they may prevent you from gaining weight. Eating extra protein is especially important if you plan to build muscle mass through exercise. Good strength training exercises include squats, deadlifts, overhead presses, bench presses, barbell rows, dips, chin-ups, crunches, bicep curls, leg presses, and leg curls.
Summary:
Treat any underlying medical conditions. Talk to a registered dietitian. Quit smoking. Start strength training to build muscle.