Most women experience PMS symptoms whether it be simple food cravings and light cramps to mood swings and fatigue. However, even though PMDD or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder might seem like PMS, it has been found that women who suffer from PMDD face a crippling effect in following their daily routine.

Symptoms:

• Feeling of hopelessness or depression
• Fatigue
• Joint/Muscle pain
• Bloating
• Cramps
• Decreased interest in doing daily activities
• Anxiety and tension
• Feeling of intense anger
• Breast tenderness

Diagnosis:

• If you suffer from any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is always a good idea to visit your doctor just to be sure
• Do not dismiss these symptoms as signs of PMS. We understand that it very well could be, but it is always better to get things cleared with your doctor first before you decide to self-diagnose
• Your doctor will then conduct tests and a thorough examination to rule out other health issues such as fibroids, endometriosis or even menopause.
• The criteria that can lead your doctor to diagnose you with PMDD is a) if you have more than 5 of the symptoms listed, b) the symptoms start 7 to 10 days prior to your periods and c) the symptoms vanish soon as your periods arrive

Treatment:
Depending on what your doctor’s diagnosis is, they might recommend treatments such as:

• Vitamin Supplements
• A switch to a different, healthier diet
• Hormone Therapy that could include birth control pills
• Management of stress
• Regular exercise

Even though PMDD might cause women to feel uncomfortable and unwell in extremities, know that it is something that can be controlled to a great extent as well.