Hyperhydration -Water Retention and PMS 

PMS-H (H = hyperhydration) is characterized by weight gain (greater than three pounds), abdominal bloating and discomfort, breast tenderness and congestion, and occasional swelling of the face, hands, and ankles. These symptoms are due to an increased fluid volume, secondary to an excess of the hormone aldosterone which causes increased fluid retention. Aldosterone excess during the premenstrual phase of PMS-H patients may arise due to stress, oestrogen excess, magnesium deficiency, or excess salt intake.

Fluid retention or 'bloating' is a common problem, but it can be treated and even avoided. 

Fluid retention or puffiness (also medically known as oedema) is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in parts of the body such as the ankles, legs, lungs and abdomen.

Fluid can build up for a variety of reasons. Many people, for example, will have experienced swollen ankles if they have been on a long flight or if they have just been standing for too long. A high-salt diet can also lead to water retention. However, swollen ankles can also be an indication of something more serious such as heart disease, liver problems or kidney failure. Thrombosis and varicose veins can also cause ankle swelling.

Fluid retention in the abdomen, ankles and fingers is one of the most common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).   

Simple treatments

Water tablets are diuretics and they increase the amount of salt and water passed in the urine. There are several types of diuretic, some of which lead to loss of potassium so often it is good to also take a potassium supplement..

An alternative to water tablets for fluid retention with PMS is to try vitamin and mineral supplements, especially vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine) and vitamin E, gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), and calcium and magnesium. These can be effective in lessening breast tenderness and bloating.