What the study also showed is that those who had high blood pressure that manifested before age 40 had severe PMS. That group was three times more likely to develop high blood pressure than those without PMS.

The good news emerging from the study’s results is the potential to modify risk factors in order to reduce the chance of developing high blood pressure in the future. The steps include increasing B vitamins riboflavin and thiamine intake, which seem to reduce PMS symptoms by as much as 30 percent. By upping the B vitamin and modifying certain lifestyle factors like weight and exercise, doctors to reduce the instances of high blood pressure.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

A diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome requires monitoring and charting symptoms for one to two months. A detailed history and physical and gynecological examination will typically be performed to rule out other medical conditions. Testing may also include a psychological evaluation along with laboratory tests and imaging tests.

Once a patient is diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome, doctors will recommend several treatments. These treatments aim not only to reduce PMS symptoms, but can also work to help reduce high blood pressure or may reduce risk for future development of it.

The first involves reducing stress and increasing exercise combined with dietary changes, all in the hopes that the existing premenstrual syndrome conditions will not get worse. Typical supplement recommendations include added vitamin B6 and vitamin D, extra calcium, and added omega-3 fatty acids.