PMS and PMDD are two conditions that affect women's mental and physical health. Solh Wellness explains symptoms, causes, and treatment options for both the conditions.

1. PMS vs. PMDD:
How Are They
Different?

2. PMS and PMDD are two conditions that
affect women's mental and physical health
in the days before menstruation. Despite
some similarities in symptoms, there are
various conditions with distinct diagnostic
criteria and treatment approaches. In this
blog, we'll look at the differences between
PMS and PMDD, as well as the symptoms
and treatments available.
Introduction

3. WhatisPMS?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a disorder that affects women in
the days or weeks preceding their menstrual cycle. PMS symptoms
vary by woman, but they commonly include mood swings, irritability,
fatigue, bloating, and breast tenderness. Headaches, backaches,
and digestive problems are also common in women.
PMS is a common condition affecting 3 of every 4 (estimated)
menstruating women. These symptoms are typically mild and do not
disrupt daily activities. However, PMS can be severe for some
women and affect their quality of lifestyle.

4. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a
more severe form of PMS that affects up to 8%
of women. The symptoms of PMDD are similar
to those of PMS but are more intense and can
significantly impact a woman's daily life.
PMDD is a severe condition that can interfere
with a woman's ability to function at work,
school, or home. It's essential to seek treatment
if you are experiencing PMDD.
WhatisPMDD?

5. The main difference between PMS and PMDD is the
symptoms' severity and impact on daily life. While
PMS can cause discomfort and mild mood changes,
PMDD can significantly affect a woman's ability to
function in everyday life, work, or relationships.
Additionally, the diagnostic criteria for PMDD are
more specific than those for PMS. PMDD requires at
least five symptoms to be present, while PMS does not
have an exact number of symptoms.
WhataretheKeydifferencesbetweenPMSandPMDD?

6. Tension or anxiety
Mood swings and irritability or
anger
Appetite changes and food
cravings
Insomnia
Social withdrawal
Change in libido
Emotional and behavioral signs
& symptoms
CommonPremenstrualSyndromeSymptoms
Joint or muscle pain
Headache & fatigue
Weight gain related to fluid
retention
Abdominal bloating
Breast tenderness
Acne flare-ups
Constipation or diarrhea
Physical signs and symptoms

7. Feelings of sadness or hopelessness or suicidal
thoughts
Severe stress, tension, or anxiety
Panic attacks
Inappropriate mood swings and bouts of crying
Constant irritability or anger that affects other people
Loss of interest in normal daily activities and
relationships
While a person going through PMD shows the above
symptoms in a severe state, here are some common
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder symptoms.
PremenstrualDysphoricDisorderSymptoms:

8. Cyclic changes in hormones. Premenstrual syndrome symptoms
change with hormonal fluctuations and disappear during pregnancy
and menopause.
Chemical changes in the brain. Serotonin fluctuations, a brain
chemical (neurotransmitter) thought to play an essential role in mood
states, could trigger PMS symptoms. Serotonin deficiency may
contribute to premenstrual depression, fatigue, food cravings, and
sleep issues.
The exact causes of PMS are still unknown; however, the factors which
can majorly contribute towards development:
WhatCausesPMS?

9. PMDD has no known cause, but it is thought to be an
abnormal response to hormonal fluctuations during the
menstrual cycle. PMDD and low serotonin levels are also
often linked together, and changes in estrogen and
progesterone levels in the two weeks preceding
menstruation are thought to affect serotonin levels.
Serotonin-mediated brain cells regulate mood, attention,
sleep, and pain. As a result, long-term changes in serotonin
levels can cause PMDD symptoms.
WhatCausesPMDD?

10. There are ways through which PMS can be managed.
Women can benefit from supplements or OTC (over-the-
counter) therapies, while some may require prescription
medications. Specific changes in lifestyle approaches can
also prove to be beneficial.
Whether you require treatment depends on the severity of
your symptoms and their effect on your life. You can discuss
your symptoms with your healthcare provider, who can
recommend the best treatment.
HowDoITreatPMS?

11. Your medical professional will decide the best course of
treatment for your PMDD symptoms. Many women with
PMDD take an antidepressant known as selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) consistently
throughout the month or an increased dose for two
weeks before their periods.
PMDD is also treatable with hormones. Many women
find that stopping ovulation with medication can
eliminate the hormone fluctuations that cause symptoms.
Your doctor may also advise you to use progesterone or
estrogen-containing medications or creams.
HowDoITreatPMDD?

12. In conclusion, PMS and PMDD are two conditions that can impact
women's mental and physical health before menstruation. While
they share some symptoms, PMDD is a more severe form of PMS
that must be diagnosed using specific criteria. Both conditions can
be treated with lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination. If
you have PMS or PMDD symptoms, speak with your healthcare
provider, who can help you decide on the best action.
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where people can express themselves & seek support to prevent
clinically diagnosed mental disorders. Join the revolution & seek
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