Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual symptoms can be mildly to much worse in women with Lyme and tick borne infections. The symptoms of PMS can also mimic some Lyme and tick borne disease symptoms. For example, sweating can be caused by fluctuating estrogen/progesterone levels, or a tick borne disease called Babesiosis (and other tick borne diseases). Women often have difficulty sorting out the symptoms and finding relief, so a visit to an ob/gyn is advised to help provide answers to your questions and possible treatment options to make you more comfortable.
PMS: Causes, Symptoms and Natural Approaches, Part 2
What Causes PMS?
It is safe to say that there is no simple, single cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can be cured by any specific medical intervention. PMS involves a complex interplay of problems, including hormonal balance, body metabolism, emotional factors and disruptions of the "mind-body connection." Table 1 covers some of the main hypotheses concerning the causes of PMS.
SUGGESTED CAUSE
COMMENT
Hormonal Problems
Various studies have identified hormone imbalances in women with PMS, but there are no consistent changes that permit a clear diagnosis. High levels of estrogen and low levels of progesterone have been associated with PMS. Progesterone supplementation is a popular intervention, and it may be effective in some women with PMS.
Water Retention
Excessive salt and water retention are common in PMS, but they may be a result rather than a cause of PMS itself.
Body Toxins
Excessive salt and water retention are common in PMS, but they may be a result rather than a cause of PMS itself.
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Female Hormones and Lyme
Posted Nov 05 2009 6:24am
Lyme and co-infections affect ALL hormones by interfering with the parts of the brain that control hormone production, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. All hormones (thyroid, adrenal, growth hormone, melatonin, ADH (anti diuretic hormone), and sex hormones are often deficient.
In addition to low hormones, hormone receptors can be affected- so blood tests may be "okay," but you feel like your hormones are low (see my women's health website, phulicohanmd.com for lists of low hormone symptoms). In addition to low hormones our liver can have problems activating and breaking down (metabolizing) hormones. So what does this mean?
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