Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is something that could be happening to you. As women, around the beginning of our periods, we tend to develop symptoms that affect our bodies and throw them out of wack. These can be anything from bloating to moodiness to headaches. This is PMS or premenstrual disorder. When these symptoms tread for longer and are more severe, this could be a premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD. PMS and PMDD can both be treated, thankfully, but it’s important to know the differences between both. We’ve outlined what to watch out for below.
What Is The Difference Between PMS and PMDD?
Premenstrual Disorder or PMS is a condition that over 90% of women get. Before or during the beginning of our periods, we can bloat heavily, get moody, or even have headaches. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder or PMDD is much more severe. It is all of these symptoms but on another level. Bloating can cause breast tenderness and pain. The moodiness you get may make you extremely sad or hopeless. You can get super irritable and angry. Sometimes, having PMDD can disrupt work and relationships can get teared apart. We’ve outlined the signs to watch out for so you can seek help for it if you are suffering.
What To Watch Out For
The symptoms listed above are all signs of PMS and PMDD, but there are some key differences in both that may be caused by your menstrual cycle. Among these, feeling depressed around your period may be one. If you are feeling so sad that you feel hopeless, this might be due to your PMDD, according to WebMD. Anxiety is another. You might feel very tense or on edge with PMDD. Mood swings are other symptoms of this disorder. With PMS, you may feel a little irritable, but with the premenstrual dysphoric disorder, it might feel more out of control. You could feel likely to cry or cry about things that you usually don’t get sad over. PMDD could also make you feel detached from life in a sense.
How To Treat PMDD
- Antidepressants: According to the Mayo Clinic, you can take serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Prozac or Zoloft to reduce emotional symptoms.
- Birth control: Birth control is known to suppress symptoms of PMS and PMDD.
- Nutritional supplements: Taking Vitamin B-6, magnesium, and L-tryptophan can also help with symptoms of PMS and PMDD.
- Herbal remedies: The Mayo Clinic recommends chasteberry to reduce irritability, mood swings, breast tenderness, swelling, cramps, and food cravings.
- Diet and lifestyle changes: Getting your health in order may also reduce symptoms of PMS and PMDD. Cut back on caffeine, avoid alcohol, and stop smoking Get enough sleep, be mindful, meditate, and do yoga. Avoid stress in all parts of your life, if possible.
