DO YOU SUFFER FROM PMS or its PMDD

A week before getting the period, a woman might feel different than her other usual days. They may get mood swings, be anxious, depressed, sleepy, feel heavy or bloated, or have tender breasts. If a woman experiences hormonal and emotional changes around the same time before her period, they certainly have premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

However, if your PMS symptoms are drastically affecting the routine things you are doing at home or the workplace, you might be having premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is a critical and advanced form of PMS.

WHAT IS PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER (PMDD)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, formerly known as PMDD, is a health-related issue that causes irritability, anxiousness, fatigue, or depression in a week or two before the period starts.

According to the research, 75% of the women experience PMS before getting their periods, of which 3% to 8% have PMDD. Looking at the current scenario and modern lifestyle, the actual numbers of PMDD patients might be higher. One should visit a nearby doctor to treat it instantly.

CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF PMDD

PMDD has similar symptoms as that of PMS, but they tend to be more intense and critical, making it hard for a woman to work efficiently. Following are some common available symptoms in both PMS and PMDD:

• Bloating
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Mood Swings
• Food Craving
• Tender Breast
• Joints and Muscle Pain

Still, PMS and PMDD are as different as two sides of a coin. For instance,

1. Depression

In the case of PMS, a woman might feel low for a day or two. If she is suffering from PMDD, her depression suppresses the reason for her to stay alive. Also, she might have a suicidal tendency in extreme situations.

2. Anxiety

In the case of PMS, a woman might be anxious for a certain timeline. But with PMDD, a woman turns very edgy and tense about any circumstances, which might affect their dearest ones drastically.

3. Mood Swings

The mood swing of a PMS woman depends on circumstances. They feel happy one minute and angry or sad the next. However, with PMDD, mood swings are severe and for a longer period. The anger, irritability, and temper might get violent and hurt someone. Sometimes, things seem to feel out of control in their life.

TREATMENT AND CARE FOR PMDD

Apparently, the causes for PMDD aren't yet transparent. Depression and anxiety are common in PMS and PMDD. Thus, we can say that it can be possible that hormonal changes which trigger the menstrual period affect mood disorders aggressively.

We are presenting you certain treatments, which might prevent or minimize the effect of PMDD:

Antidepressants are drugs or medicines that help relieve or control the symptoms of depressions, anxiety, or loneliness. Frequently, doctors will first prescribe Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI). Generally, it causes lesser side effects at higher therapeutic doses than other types of antidepressants. These SSRIs include fluoxetine, sertraline, and escitalopram.

• Nutritional Supplements

As per the studies, if a woman consumes 1200 milligrams of calcium every day, it reduces the possibility of PMS and PMDD. Nutritional supplements containing chaste berry extracts, vitamin C, magnesium sulfate, passionflower, etc., can help reduce the symptoms. Satthwa, Natrol LLC, Power Gummies, The Himalayan Organics, etc., are some trusted and reputed brands one must consider for buying these supplements.

A healthy lifestyle keeps PMS and PMDD away. Lower intake of caffeine, fast food, smokes, and alcohol consumption can reduce its symptoms. Also, regular exercise that includes walking, jogging, or yoga can reduce premenstrual symptoms. Proper sleep and a nutritious diet keeps their hormones and mind healthy.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

Doctors will guide and prescribe you the best medical or natural remedies to cure these premenstrual symptoms. If PMS or PMDD symptoms are impacting the mental wellbeing, work, or relationships of a woman, they must immediately consult a doctor.

We are presenting you with some tips that will help you to share your concerns more accurately:

• Pen down your feelings and questions you want to ask your doctor.
• Bring your parents, siblings, or husband along with you while visiting the doctor.
• When your doctor prescribes you the medicines, always ask about its side effects or usage limitations. Also, confront the things you are allergic to.
• Always ask for natural or alternative treatment procedures. Switch to nutritious supplements, if required.

TAKEAWAYS

PMDD is a chronic condition that needs treatment. For few women, the severity of this syndrome increases rapidly and lasts until menopause. Thus, the right treatment and proper consultancy are essential.

PMDD is treatable. Medications, natural remedies, and healthy lifestyle changes can help one overcome premenstrual syndromes efficiently.