What is the difference between PMDD and PMS?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old woman who has been experiencing severe mood swings, irritability, and other troubling symptoms in the days leading up to my period. These symptoms are significantly impacting my daily life and relationships, and I suspect it may be more than just typical premenstrual syndrome (PMS). After some research, I came across premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which seems to align more closely with what I am experiencing. Can you please explain the differences between PMDD and PMS and how I can differentiate between the two? Additionally, what treatment options are available to help alleviate the symptoms of PMDD and improve my quality of life during this challenging time each month? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) share some similarities, but they also have distinct differences:

The severity of Symptoms: PMS involves mild to moderate physical and psychological symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation. PMDD, on the other hand, involves more severe symptoms that significantly disrupt daily functioning and quality of life.

Symptoms: While both PMS and PMDD involve physical symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and breast tenderness, PMDD is characterized by more severe psychological symptoms such as severe mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression.

Duration: PMS symptoms typically resolve shortly after menstruation begins, while PMDD symptoms persist for longer and often extend into the first few days of menstruation.

Impact on Daily Life: PMDD can significantly interfere with daily activities, relationships, and work performance, whereas PMS symptoms are usually less severe and do not impair functioning to the same extent.

To differentiate between the two, it is important to track your symptoms over several menstrual cycles and note their severity and duration. If your symptoms consistently interfere with your daily life and relationships, and if they occur in a predictable pattern each month, it is advisable to consult the nearest psychiatrist for a proper diagnosis. As for treatment options for PMDD, they may include:

Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress reduction techniques (such as mindfulness or meditation), and adequate sleep can help alleviate symptoms.

Medications: Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are often prescribed to help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of PMDD. Hormonal contraceptives or medications that suppress ovulation may also be recommended.

Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy can be beneficial in managing PMDD symptoms, especially if there are underlying psychological factors contributing to your condition.

Supplements: Some women find relief from PMDD symptoms by taking supplements such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, or chaste berries (Vitex).

I hope that you get your answer.

Thank you.