PMS VS PMDD: the battle of mood swings
Introduction
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is the classic villain that knocks on your door every month, bringing along its trusty sidekicks: mood swings, bloating, an undefeated craving for carbs, and an undeniable urge to throw a tantrum over the smallest things (like someone breathing too loudly near you).
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But did you know PMS isn’t the worst villain you can face? Yes, there’s worse! Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) — PMS’s evil twin brother.
First, let’s clear up PMS:
Our classic villain… the one we all know and (let’s be honest) kind of tolerate—most of the time. About 75% of us experience PMS in the days leading up to our periods. For most, these symptoms are mild to moderate, easily manageable, and don’t interfere too much with daily life.
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Common symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Sore breasts
- Mood swings
- Feeling irritable
- Food cravings
- Trouble sleeping.
However, if these symptoms consistently appear in three or more cycles, start about five days before your period, and end within four days after it begins, you could be diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome, which is a medical diagnosis!
But what about its evil twin, PMDD?
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that affects about 5% of women. While PMS doesn’t interfere with daily life, PMDD can be very distressing. Often leads to thoughts of self-harm and suicide and must be taken seriously as a physical and mental condition.
Are you confused? So are we.
Many medical professionals struggle to tell the difference. However, think of it like this: menstrual-related symptoms are at one end, PMS is in the middle and PMDD is at the opposite far end.
So, What causes PMDD?
In reality, we don’t know!
Studies suggest that cyclical changes in estrogen and progesterone levels could trigger the symptoms.
However, this doesn’t fully explain why some women experience such severe symptoms while others don’t.
Another study found that a genetic component may be involved, yet to be identified.
How to diagnose PMDD?
- Track your symptoms throughout your period and for at least 2 cycles
- See a medical professional. They will look out for some of these symptoms(which will need to have been present during most of your cycles over the past year)
- Changing moods e.g. mood swings, feeling suddenly sad or tearful, or increased sensitivity to rejection.
- Marked irritability or anger or increased interpersonal conflict
- Marked depressed mood, feelings of hopelessness or self-deprecating thoughts
- Marked anxiety, tension, and or feeling of being keyed up or on edge
- Physical symptoms such as breast tenderness or swelling, joint or muscle pain, a sensation of bloating, or weight gain
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How to Cope Like a Boss For PMS:
 Exercise: Endorphins can help balance mood swings.
Diet: Cutting back on caffeine and salt might reduce bloating and irritability. (But who’s giving up chocolate? No one.)
Over-the-counter pain relief: For cramps and headaches.
For PMDD:
Talk to a healthcare provider: antidepressants (SSRIs), hormonal birth control, or lifestyle changes can make a huge difference.
Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help manage emotional symptoms. Support groups: Knowing you’re not alone can be incredibly validating.
Conclusion
Whether you’re battling the classic PMS villain or facing the more intense PMDD, it’s all about knowing your symptoms and finding strategies to tackle them. From exercise to therapy, there are plenty of ways to keep your mood swings in check. You know you best, and your experience is valid.
Author
Dr Toka Gamal
