PMS Symptoms
There are many different documented symptoms of PMS,
but it is highly unlikely that one woman would suffer
from all of them. The most common complaints associated
with PMS are bloating, fatigue, irritability and headaches.
Doctors have not been able to find an exact cause for
PMS, but many believe PMS is related to the fluctuations
in hormones that take place during and after ovulation.
For many women, the discomfort and emotional “swings”
that take place just prior to menstruation stop once
their periods begin. For others, the discomfort continues
throughout the menstrual period.
PMS Relief
PMS may aggravate current conditions that you may already
have, more specifically, depression or other mood disorders.
There is no test or “cure” for PMS. Many
doctors will take into account your symptoms and possibly
run some tests to rule out other disorders.
Some women find that a few simple lifestyle changes
help alleviate some of their symptoms. Keep track of
your menstrual cycle every month. This will help you
prepare for when your symptoms will present. Make sure
you are drinking plenty of water every day. Make it
a point to stay away from excess salty foods just prior
to your period. Both salty food and snacks will add
to fluid retention and bloating. Increase your activity,
as exercise helps boost mood and energy levels. Consuming
caffeine and alcohol just before and during your period
can make PMS symptoms worse.
Over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and
acetaminophen can help with headaches and body aches.
If you use aspirin for pain relief, take note, one side
effect of aspirin is blood thinning. Taking aspirin
during your period could cause your “flow”
to become heavier.
If you’ve taken several steps to help manage
your PMS and you find it’s not helping, speak
with your doctor.
PMDD or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
For some women, PMS becomes so severe that it can actually
become debilitating. In other words, the symptoms associated
with a woman’s period can actually make it almost
impossible for her to function. Women suffering with
this type of PMS are said to have PMDD or Premenstrual
Dysphoric Disorder.
PMDD is similar to PMS, as the symptoms seem to revolve
around the menstrual cycle. What sets it apart from
PMS is the severity of symptoms.
Much like PMS, the exact cause of PMDD is unclear.
Women with a history of depression and/or postpartum
depression are at a higher risk for PMDD. PMDD is diagnosed
after all other possible disorders or conditions are
ruled out. If a woman has symptoms of PMDD but they
occur most of the time and do not seem to get better
during menstruation, chances are, it’s something
other than PMDD.
PMDD Treatments
Treatment for PMDD depends on the individual woman.
Many doctors like to try the same approach to PMDD as
they do with PMS. Women are encouraged to partake in
routine exercise, rest and good nutrition.
For some women, doctors prescribe medications. In the
U.S., there are currently four medications approved
by the FDA to treat PMDD. These medications include:
Sarafen, Paxil CR, Zoloft and the birth control pill
Yaz. Medication regimens, again, depend solely on the
individual woman. Some doctors prescribe the medications
listed to be taken just during the PMDD period while
others will advise to take the medication daily.
Many women are not aware that PMDD is an actual diagnosis
or that treatment is available. Other women are reluctant
to seek help out of fear or shame that they will be
labeled “weak” or “crazy.” Treatment
is available; you just have to seek it out. PMDD is
a serious condition and should not just be brushed off
as “part of the menstrual process.”
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