PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, is severe PMS and affects between five to ten percent of all women who menstruate. While the symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS, the symptoms of PMDD are more extreme than those of PMS.
Symptoms of PMDD
Severe PMS symptoms can include intense mood swings, anxiety or depression. Other symptoms might include having feelings of being out of control or having changes in sleeping patterns. You might also feel extremely tired.
The difference between the symptoms of PMS and PMDD is that while the symptoms of PMS can be difficult, the symptoms of PMDD can be devastating, creating problems in relationships and the ability to function.
Dealing with Severe PMS
The three avenues of attack that are currently used to battle PMDD are the medication approach, the psychobehavioral approach and the nutritional approach. Physicians often combine these approaches for more effective treatments.
Both over-the-counter and prescribed medications can be used to treat PMS. However, the Food and Drug Administration currently approves four prescription drugs to specifically treat PMDD: fluoxetine, paroxetine controlled-release, setraline and drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol oral contraceptives. Sertraline, paroxetine and fluoxetine are antidepressants.
In addition, your doctor may suggest analgesics for pain or prescribe diuretics to help with water retention.
Psychobehavioral approaches include regular exercise, which can cause your body to produce endorphin, a natural chemical that can boost moods. Exercise will also help you control your weight and improve your cardiovascular system health. In addition, your physician may suggest that you participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy, which can help you learn more effective coping techniques. Learning about relaxation therapy might also prove to be a plus for you.
Improving your diet might also help combat PMDD. Eat a healthy, lowfat diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition, cut down on any alcohol or caffeinated beverages that you drink. Avoid salt and refined sugar and give up smoking.
If you feel that you might have severe PMS, make an appointment to see your physician. Your doctor will work with you to find the best approach for dealing with PMDD. This is not something that you should do on your own.
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