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One culture may report different symptoms from another culture, but women from all walks of life are affected.

But only 5% to 10% say they have symptoms severe enough to interfere with daily life, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is usually used as a designation for severe cases of PMS. (Dysphoric means the opposite of euphoric, which is a comfortable, happy feeling.)

Some women have physical changes. Others have emotional changes. Not all women have all symptoms, according to the National Women's Health Resource Center. Of the 150 symptoms, these are among the most significant: Physical symptoms include abdominal bloating, headache, weight gain, and breast swelling. Emotional changes include irritability, mood swings, food cravings, and tension. Mental changes include depressive mood, anxiety, lack of concentration, and poor control of impulses.

It can also be confused with diabetes, thyroid problems, allergies, and endometriosis, the ACOG says.

The exact things that cause PMS aren't yet understood, but serotonin, progesterone, and estrogen, plus other hormones and chemicals, may play a role, the ACOG says.

Symptoms appear after ovulation, about the 14th day of your monthly cycle. They disappear 2 weeks later, when your period begins, according to the ACOG. In addition, the symptoms must affect your life. Other illnesses, such as depression, must also be ruled out before a diagnosis of PMS can be made. PMS can co-exist with and may other illnesses and conditions worse. Asthma symptoms, for instance, can worsen with PMS. Typically, your healthcare provider will ask you to keep a diary of symptoms for 2 to 3 months before making a diagnosis.

Your healthcare provider may recommend taking calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E to help relieve symptoms. Recent research has shown that estrogen regulates the levels of calcium and magnesium in the body, so taking extra calcium may help symptoms. Taking magnesium may help with symptoms of fluid retention and breast tenderness. For severe cases of PMS, a doctor may prescribe an antidepressant known as a serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor.