As if premenstrual syndrome (PMS) isn't such a hassle and sometimes a physical pain for many women, a new study links it to high blood pressure.
In a study that is now found in American Journal of Epidemiology, women who exhibit significant symptoms of PMS may develop high blood pressure or hypertension twenty years earlier than women who did not have PMS. This simply means that women who have PMS can already be diagnosed of the disease that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney problems before they turn 40.
PMS refers to a cluster of symptoms that can occur usually after the ovulation period. The length of PMS can significantly vary: some women may have it for only a few days while others can experience it for the entire two weeks before the period comes along.
Common symptoms of PMS include bloating or diarrhea, tender or swollen breasts, pain in the muscles and joints, acne breakout, lethargy, and increased food cravings.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, more than 80% of menstruating women experience at least one PMS symptom every menstrual period. It also normally occurs among women between the ages of 20s and early 40s, as well as those who have a family history of depression or mood disorder, including post-partum depression. It is also common among women who have given birth to at least one child.
For the study, the team reviewed the data of a health study conducted for 14 years starting from 1991. At least 4,000 women from 27 years old formed part of the new research, of which around 1,200 reported having clinically significant symptoms of PMS. The team then determined how many of these women developed hypertension until 2011.
The increased risk is so high even if other factors such as body mass index (BMI) are considered. The researchers believe that the link may be due to a problem with a hormonal system that controls blood pressure. Obesity, which can also increase the risk of hypertension, is also associated with PMS symptoms.
Nevertheless, the researchers think that more studies need to be conducted to firmly establish the link.
