PMS vs. PMDD: What’s the Difference?
PMS and PMDD have similarities, but we’ll go over how they are different. You may dread that time of the month due to the symptoms that occur right before menstruation. PMS and PMDD are groups of symptoms that occur a week or two before your period; however, PMDD is much more severe.
PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome and it refers to both physical and emotional symptoms due to a shift in hormones right before your period. Common symptoms include acne, tender breasts, irritability, mood swings, cramping, bloating, and lack of energy.
PMDD stands for premenstrual dysphoric disorder and it causes severe irritability, depression, or anxiety. It is essentially a severe form of PMS. The causes of PMS and PMDD are unknown, but they may be due to changes in mood chemical levels that occur throughout the menstrual cycle, like serotonin and GABA, due to hormonal fluctuations in the luteal phase. Serotonin is often known as the happy mood chemical, since it contributes to the feeling of wellbeing, therefore, decreased serotonin contributes to symptoms commonly associated with PMS and PMDD.
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PMS and PMDD Similarities
PMS and PMDD have many similarities which can make it difficult for people to differentiate the two. The following are similarities between PMS and PMDD:
Both include symptoms like bloating, cramping, breast tenderness, fatigue, irritability, depression, and anxiety
Anxiety disorders and depression may sometimes mimic PMS and PMDD since they have similar symptoms
Symptoms typically occur five to seven days before the menstrual period and usually go away once your menstrual period starts.
PMS and PMDD Differences
PMDD has extreme mood shifts. Although the symptoms of PMS and PMDD are similar, PMDD is far more severe and symptoms may interfere with quality of life
PMDD requires a more aggressive approach to treatment
PMS vs. PMDD Conclusions
PMS and PMDD may seem similar, however, PMDD is far more severe and often requires more rigorous medical attention. If you are someone who suffers from PMS or PMDD, there are many ways to improve symptoms, such as through diet, exercise, relaxation techniques, and supplements. If making lifestyle changes does not improve your symptoms, consult with your primary care provider for further treatment.
Take away message:
Both PMS and PMDD can be a result of certain hormonal, mood chemical, or nutrient imbalances in the body. If you’re looking to understand the root causes of your PMS or PMDD, check out my hormone testing packages HERE.
