In women, it is well known that before and during menstruation, physical and hormonal changes occur, which in one way or another, have an impact on their emotions.
Usually, these symptoms that occur before menstruation are known as premenstrual syndrome.
However, few women know that when these changes before menstruation, especially the emotional ones, become very intense, it is no longer premenstrual syndrome but premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
This disorder is uncommon, but it is very aggressive. It is recommended that it be detected early because it causes emotional variations in women, which often end in intense episodes of depression or anxiety.
Next, we will learn more about this disorder.
What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?
The premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a condition that affects women before menstruation. It is a more severe variation of premenstrual syndrome. Typically, PMDD causes depression, anxiety, and other physical and mental symptoms 8 to 15 days before menstruation.
The symptoms of this disorder are extreme and affect the ability of the person to carry out normal daily activities, such as studying, working, or social outings.
The symptoms usually disappear a day or two after menstruation arrives.
Symptoms and cause of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
The premenstrual dysphoric disorder produces symptoms that may be considered normal for women before menstruation, such as bloating, breast tenderness, food cravings, and excessive sleepiness. However, for those who suffer from this disorder, other symptoms appear:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
- Anxiety, even accompanied by panic attacks.
- Moodiness and irritability.
- Depression.
- Extreme tiredness.
- Loss of concentration.
- Headaches.
- colic
- joint pain
The cause of PMDD itself is not yet well defined, but because it is related to the menstrual cycle, it is believed to be caused by the hormonal imbalance that occurs in women.
Treatment for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
The first thing to know is that premenstrual dysphoric disorder is not a condition that can be cured. The treatment is aimed at decreasing the intensity of its symptoms.
Therefore, the treatment includes:
Antidepressants: these medications are inhibitors that decrease some emotional symptoms, fatigue, and insomnia. They are recommended to be taken all month long or only between ovulation and the onset of menstruation.
Birth control pills: It is already well known that birth control pills can reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, which can also reduce the symptoms of PMDD.
Nutritional supplements: Including calcium, vitamin B6, or magnesium supplements in the daily diet may also help. However, this should be on the recommendation of your physician.
Better eating habits and exercise: A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce PMDD symptoms. It is also recommended to avoid caffeine and alcohol consumption, as well as smoking.
On the other hand, doing physical exercises or meditation such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, among others can help a lot.
So, if you think you suffer from the premenstrual dysphoric disorder, because you have recognized certain symptoms in you, the best recommendation is to consult with your doctor who will evaluate your case and give you the recommendations he/she considers.
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