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While the symptoms may be mild and manageable for some, they can feel overwhelming for others. Understanding the differences and their symptoms can help you seek the proper care and correct treatment.
What is PMS?
PMS stands for Premenstrual Syndrome, which may expose you to a variety of physical and emotional changes about one to two weeks before your period. These usually go away a few days after your period starts.Most women experience some form of PMS at some point in their lives. They are usually mild to moderate and do not interfere with your daily life.
Common symptoms of PMS include:
- Mood swings or irritability
- Bloating or weight gain
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Fatigue or trouble sleeping
- Food cravings
- Mild anxiety or sadness
- Cramps or muscle pain
What is PMDD?
PMDD stands for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. It is a more severe form of PMS that affects your mood and emotional well-being. Your symptoms may feel intense or make it challenging to carry out routine tasks, such as working, studying, or interacting with others.PMDD is considered a medical condition that needs diagnosis and treatment. Unlike PMS, PMDD symptoms may even feel similar to depression or anxiety disorders. It may cause severe emotional distress for some women.
Common symptoms of PMDD include:
- Severe mood swings
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Anger or irritability that affects relationships
- Panic attacks or severe anxiety
- Trouble focusing or thinking clearly
- Lack of interest in usual activities
- Fatigue or low energy
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- It has the same physical symptoms as PMS, but it may feel extreme for some.
Key Differences Between PMS and PMDD
Understanding the difference between PMS and PMDD is crucial, especially if your symptoms are worsening or significantly impacting your quality of life.| Feature | PMS | PMDD |
| Emotional symptoms | Mild to moderate | Severe and often disabling |
| Impact on daily life | Minor | Major |
| Mood changes | Irritability or sadness | Depression, rage, or hopelessness |
| Physical symptoms | Common and mild | May be intense |
| Sleep and appetite | May be affected | Often significantly affected |
| Response to stress | Manageable | Hard to manage |
| Need for treatment | Lifestyle changes may help | Often requires medical support |
What Causes PMS and PMDD?
PMS and PMDD are related to the hormonal changes in your menstrual cycle. Your body produces more progesterone after ovulation. Hormone levels drop when pregnancy does not occur, which can lead to their symptoms.Your body adjusts to these changes more easily in the case of PMS. However, your body may react more strongly to these hormone shifts if you have PMDD. Researchers believe that brain chemicals, such as serotonin, which affect mood, may also play a role.
Other factors like stress, existing mental health conditions, and genetics may also increase your risk.
How Can You Know What You Are Experiencing?
You can track your symptoms to find out if you have PMS or PMDD. Make a note of your feelings every day, both physically and emotionally. Also, please write down the timing, intensity, and ways it affects your routine.You can use a notebook or a period-tracking app to track the symptoms. You will have clear answers to discuss with your doctor after tracking for two to three months.
Your doctor may also do a physical exam, ask about your mental health history, and rule out other conditions like depression, anxiety, or thyroid issues.
How Are PMS and PMDD Treated?
You may feel better by making a few changes to your lifestyle if you have PMS, which include:- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Reducing caffeine, sugar, and salt
- Getting enough sleep
- Practising stress management, like meditation or yoga
- Taking supplements like calcium, magnesium, or vitamin B6 (after consulting your doctor)
However, you may need more structured treatment to deal with PMDD.
- Antidepressants (SSRIs) may help with mood symptoms.
- Birth control pills can regulate hormones.
- Nutritional support and lifestyle changes.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to manage emotional symptoms.
- In some cases, hormonal treatments or surgery are considered if other options do not work.
When Should You Seek Help?
You must seek medical help if your premenstrual symptoms get in the way of your normal life or affect your work, relationships and self-esteem. Please do not wait for it to get worse or try to manage it alone.It is crucial to consult a doctor and receive the treatment immediately to feel more in control of your health.
Living with PMS or PMDD is not easy. The key difference lies in the severity of your symptoms and the ways they impact your daily life.
You can take the first steps toward better well-being by understanding your body, tracking your symptoms, and speaking with a healthcare expert. Remember, all you need is the right guidance to deal with PMS or PMDD.
FAQs on PMDD vs. PMS: Key Differences and Symptoms
- Can PMS turn into PMDD over time?
The chances of PMS turning into PMDD are unlikely, but your symptoms may change as you age. It may even change due to stress and hormonal shifts. It is best to discuss your symptoms with your doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment. - Can PMDD be cured?
Although there is no cure for PMDD, it is possible to manage it better with treatment. You can make lifestyle changes, start meditation or get therapy to reduce its symptoms and also improve your quality of life.