PMDD is unlike PMS, in the sense that it can last longer and cause more problems in both personal and professional relationships.
Before someone decides they must have PMDD, because they constantly feel like they're on an emotional roller coaster, they should first consider a few of these symptoms.
Symptoms of PMDD
- Unusual amounts of crying, anger, frustration or more emotionally unstable two or more weeks prior to the actual menstrual cycle
- Struggling with an over indulgent appetite or eating far less than what would be typical?
- Feeling tense or anxious two weeks prior, as though constantly on the edge waiting for something to happen
- More physical pain or issues with bloating
These are only a few of the main symptoms of PMDD, and it's not a mood disorder that should be taken lightly.
Diagnosing PMDD
Sufferers can attest that this is a disorder that can, if not taken seriously, wreak havoc on all sorts of personal and professional situations. However, most professionals will tell a patient to monitor themselves 3-6 months before they'll diagnose a woman with with PMDD.
Patients may find a body diary helpful during the PMDD diagnosis process.
A body diary allows for the recording mental, physical and emotional status daily for a long period of time, showing patterns. The website asks questions and uses minimal, mild, moderate, severe and extreme to rate the responses. It's best to answer the diary at evening and be truly honest with oneself.
In reading the chart, the red area is extreme which means sufferers should definitely mention something to their doctor down the line.
At the end of the three months a patient can print their diary and show it to the doctor which gives a fairly clear picture of where the problem lies and when it occurs compared to the menstrual cycle.
Ways to Prevent PMDD
There are several methods commonly used to treat PMDD.
- Exercise and increased activity releases the hormones needed to off set some of the emotions people experience. There's evidence to suggest that exercise -- aerobic exercise in particular -- does make people feel better both emotionally and physically.
- Changing eating habits can ease PMDD symptoms. Consuming less salt helps to reduce bloating and drinking less caffeine can help prevent the jitters and nervousness that's often associated with caffeinated drinks.
- Try eating more meals a day but smaller portions.
If none of these options work to improve PMDD symptoms, there are birth control medications and other medicines that are becoming more common.
Ask the doctor about the efficiency of PMDD treatments and any potential side effects before starting any new medications.
Most of all, PMDD sufferers should take the time to get to know their body and understand how and why it's reacting the way it is. If the symptoms a woman is experiencing are beyond what would be considered typical, then maybe it's time to visit a physician.
Take control over the emotions and focus on recovery. Speaking with a professional can also offer solutions on how to cope with PMDD as well as how to prevent the blow ups and the stress that can often lead the worst days.
Sources
WebMD - Mental Health: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
