PMS vs. PMDD

Many women experience some degree of PMS which can be described as emotional and physical changes prior to menstruation. PMS, also called Pre-Menstrual Syndrome, can be a nuisance for the woman going through it and those around her. These changes can include moodiness, bloating, headaches, anger, nausea, irritability and breast tenderness. Symptoms can be mild to severe and they vary from woman to woman. While it’s not clear what causes PMS, some believe that it can be a combination of genetics, environment, behavior, nutrition, and physiological factors. Perhaps that explains why some women say they never suffer from PMS while others admit to having frequent symptoms.

There is a chance some of the women who think they are suffering from PMS are actually suffering from something else called PMDD or premenstrual dysmorphic disorder. PMDD is a condition where women experience emotional and physical problems, often severe, prior to the start of menstruation. PMDD is considered to be a very severe form of PMS which only affects about 5 percent of menstruating women. Regular PMS affects roughly 75 percent of women and is much more common than PMDD.

Women who suffer from PMDD say it has a very debilitating affect on their lives. The symptoms of this disorder include severe depression, anxiety, or irritability. While women with PMS are still able to function normally, those who are suffering from PMDD have trouble completing normal everyday tasks. Although their symptoms usually go away after menstruation begins, the time which they are present can affect work, school, and cause problems in your close relationships. If women have a history of mental disorders such as bipolar, depression, or a diagnosed mental condition, PMDD can make these symptoms dramatically worse prior to the onset of menstruation.

So how do you treat PMS and PMDD? Well PMS can be treated through non-medical techniques. Simple changes in diet and lifestyle can help alleviate some of the symptoms. Try having a day to relax where you go to a spa or soak in a hot bath. Eat healthier foods like fruits and vegetables and cut back on junk food. Try to eliminate some of your stressors and by doing so you’ll more than likely eliminate some of your symptoms. What about treatment for PMDD? Well there are 3 approaches to treating this disorder which is medication, nutrition, and psychobehavioral therapy. Medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, hormones, and diuretics. As for psychobehavioral therapy, it includes physical exercise and cognitive exercises to help with relaxation. Women will have to see which approach or combination of approaches work best for them.

While that time of the month can be a pain within itself with the cramps and general discomfort, PMS or PMDD can only add more fuel to the fire. It is good to know that if you suffer from either of these disorders, there is treatment available and you don’t have to continue suffering.

Sources

PMDD Facts For Health

Women’s Health Channel