Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a much more severe form of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) that affects people of childbearing age. It is a chronic health condition requiring attention and treatment, often involving both lifestyle changes and medication.
What Is the Difference Between PMDD and PMS?
While PMS and PMDD share many physical and emotional symptoms, PMDD causes extreme mood shifts that can disrupt daily life and damage relationships, making it far more debilitating than typical PMS.
Shared Symptoms of PMS and PMDD
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Fatigue
- Changes in sleep and eating habits
Symptoms Unique to PMDD
In addition to the above, PMDD involves at least one of these severe emotional or behavioral symptoms:
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Anxiety or tension
- Extreme moodiness
- Marked irritability or anger
Both PMS and PMDD symptoms usually start 7 to 10 days before your period and improve once menstruation begins.
What Causes PMDD?
The exact cause of PMDD is unclear. However, many individuals with PMDD also have underlying depression or anxiety. The hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle are thought to worsen symptoms of these mood disorders.
How Is PMDD Treated?
Treatment for PMDD focuses on preventing or minimizing symptoms through a combination of medication, lifestyle, and sometimes supplements:
1. Antidepressants
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem) and sertraline (Zoloft) are often prescribed.
- SSRIs can reduce emotional symptoms, fatigue, food cravings, and sleep problems.
- They may be taken continuously or only during the luteal phase (after ovulation until the period starts).
2. Birth Control Pills
- Taking birth control pills without a pill-free interval or with a shortened break can help reduce PMS and PMDD symptoms.
3. Nutritional Supplements
- Calcium: About 1,200 mg daily may reduce symptoms.
- Vitamin B6, magnesium, and L-tryptophan may also help, but consult your doctor before starting supplements.
4. Herbal Remedies
- Some evidence suggests chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) can reduce irritability, mood swings, breast tenderness, swelling, cramps, and cravings.
- However, more research is needed, and herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so always check with a healthcare provider first.
5. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise often reduces premenstrual symptoms.
- Cutting back on caffeine, avoiding alcohol, and quitting smoking can ease symptoms.
- Getting enough sleep and practicing relaxation techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga may help.
- Avoid stressful triggers such as arguments or emotional stress when possible.
When to Seek Help
If you experience symptoms of PMDD that interfere with your daily life, talk to your doctor about diagnosis and treatment options. Early intervention can significantly improve quality of life.
Taking control of your symptoms through a combination of medical care and healthy habits can help you better manage PMDD and improve your mental and physical well-being throughout your menstrual cycle.
