As many as 70-90% of women are affected by PMS each month.  They suffer through cramps, moodiness, bloating, and breakouts. Along with the usual PMS symptoms, many women also suffer from headaches, back pain and extreme fatigue. Here are a few tips to ease your PMS symptoms.

 
To deal with cramps and headaches, try OTC medications such as Aleve and Ibuprofen. Some research has shown that taking extra calcium during your period can help with cramps and back pain. It also will help with reducing your chances of osteoporosis which is a nice benefit.

 
Exercise also helps battle cramps. You might not feel like getting moving but it can make all the difference. Make sure you keep yourself hydrated and don’t push yourself too hard.

 
If you do have headaches, see if you can find a trigger. Some women find that they need more water during this time to combat dehydration. Also, beware of things like peanuts, wine and yes…chocolate which can trigger headaches. They might not bother you the rest of the month but during PMS you can be more sensitive to these.

 
If you also have bloating, try something like Midol or Pamprin which treat more of the symptoms of PMS. If you want to try something natural, drink cranberry juice which can act as a diuretic. Also avoid food that contains too much salt as the sodium causes you to retain water.

 
Some days simply getting out of bed can be difficult due to the fatigue caused by PMS. Make sure you try to get in bed earlier. Vitamin B can also help ease the exhaustion and irritability you feel. A massage can also do wonders for the exhaustion and moodiness.

 
Women also can become temporarily anemic during their period though it tends to be mild. All the same, it can affect your energy level. Eating food higher in iron can help combat this.

 
There is no definite known cause for PMS. Being aware of your body and taking measure to reduce your discomfort is your best defense against it.