PMS, PMDD & Depression

PMS, PMDD & Depression What Women Need to Know

For women, it's not unusual to experience emotional turmoil during their period, but what if it's something more? Depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can cause similar symptoms millions of women struggle with every month. PMS is manageable. The other conditions, however, often are not manageable without medical intervention. It's important to understand the difference and seek help from healthcare professionals.

~ When PMS Isn't PMS ~

Mood swings, sleepiness, bloating, headaches, and pain are all common with PMS. These symptoms show up a few days before the period arrives and may stay around for the first few days after. Usually, however, a bit of pain killer and a hot water bottle will get them through the worst of it. In more severe cases of PMS, a contraceptive pill can keep hormones in check and reduce symptoms. If the pill doesn't, it could indicate that a woman has more than just PMS.

PMDD looks just like PMS. The two have the same symptoms, show up at about the same time, and disappear about the same time. The big difference between the two conditions is severity. PMDD symptoms are so intense that those affected can't work, focus, or go about daily life. Mood swings are so extreme they interfere with relationships and make it very difficult to deal with the public.

While no one knows for sure what causes PMDD, experts have a few ideas. Post-partum depression, pregnancy, and genetics may all playa role in causing or triggering PMDD. Having a diagnosis of anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health problems can put women athigher risk of the condition. Treatments for the condition are just as vague.

~ Treating PMDD ~

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help PMDD sufferers identify the monthly emotional roller coaster and manage the extremes.Medications such as anti-depressants and oral contraceptives can help ease symptoms, too. Aside from that, modern medicine can't offermuch help since research in this area has been sparse.

Women who experience severe PMS should keep a diary for at least two months. They should record how they feel each day physicallyand mentally. It can also help to include any medications taken as well as their diet. The physician and psychotherapist can then use thiscomprehensive record to give an accurate diagnosis.

~ When the PMS Doesn't End ~

In some instances, the emotional problems of PMS don't seem to have a beginning or an end. The fatigue, disinterest in activities, helplessness, and deep sadness can last for weeks or months. When their period starts, women may find this darkness gets worse. These increasingly morose feelings could indicate conditions such as depression or bipolar disorder, so women who feel this way need to seek help from a mental health professional. Even if a woman doesn't get a diagnosis for either mental condition, a mental health professional can give the sufferer valuable coping strategies and help.

Illnesses such as endometriosis and fibroids include symptoms such as persistent bloating, severe back pain, and significant abdominal discomfort. These symptoms can last a week or more and have serious risks such as infertility, scarring, cancer, or even death. They shouldn't be taken lightly. If someone has been dealing with symptoms like these, they should seek help from a physician.

PMS might be uncomfortable, but it doesn't prevent women from performing their daily duties. PMDD, depression, and other related illnesses can keep women bedridden for days or even weeks. Don't suffer alone. If the monthly symptoms begin to interfere with life, it's time to seek professional advice. Physicians and mental health professionals can help find the right combination of therapy and medications so that sufferers can get back to enjoying their lives. BMW