PMDD vs PMS: What Is The Difference?
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) share similarities, but the severity of symptoms differs significantly. While PMS can be uncomfortable, PMDD symptoms are much more severe, greatly impacting daily life. Due to overlapping symptoms, some women may struggle to distinguish between the two conditions.
However, up to 90% of women experience some premenstrual symptoms, with 2-8% suffering from PMDD. It’s essential to understand the distinctions between these conditions to find suitable treatment options. In this article, we will discuss PMDD vs PMS based on their symptoms, causes, and treatment options to help you better know these conditions.
Overview of PMS vs PMDD
Here is a PMS vs PMDD comparison overview:
| PMDD | PMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder | Premenstrual Syndrome |
| Symptoms | Similar to PMS but with more severe emotional and psychological symptoms, such as -Severe depression -Irritability -Anxiety -Tension | Physical and emotional symptoms experienced by some people before menstruation, such a -Bloating -Breast tenderness -Mood swings -Fatigue -Headaches |
| Severity | Significantly more severe than PMS | Less severe than PMDD |
| Duration | Typically occurs one or two weeks before menstruation and ends a few days after the onset of menstruation | Typically, it occurs a few days before menstruation and ends a few days after the onset of menstruation |
| Treatment | -Antidepressants -Hormonal contraceptives -Psychotherapy -Lifestyle changes | -Lifestyle changes -Over-the-counter pain relievers -Hormonal contraceptives |
| Prevalence | It affects about 3-8% of menstruating people | It affects up to 90% of menstruating people, but the severity varies widely |
| Long-term health risks | Increased risk for suicidal ideation, self-harm, and substance abuse | No long-term health risks associated with PMS |
What is PMDD vs PMS?
Premenstrual Syndrome is a condition affecting women before their menstrual period, whereas PMDD is a severe type of PMS marked by more intense physical and emotional symptoms. While PMS symptoms can be uncomfortable, PMDD symptoms are significantly more disruptive, affecting daily activities and personal relationships.
Dr. Alyssa Dweck notes that PMDD can severely impact mood, causing extreme mood swings, irritability, and feelings of loss of control. The primary distinction between PMS and PMDD is the intensity of these symptoms, with PMDD being much more severe. Both conditions stem from hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
PMDD vs PMS symptoms
Most people who menstruate experience mild physical and emotional symptoms in the week before their periods. Known as Premenstrual Syndrome, these symptoms can include:
- Tender breasts
- Bloating
- Increased hunger
- Irritability
- Crying spells
While PMS can vary in severity, it usually does not significantly disrupt daily life and is not considered a mental illness. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, by contrast, involves severe emotional symptoms such as:
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
For a PMDD diagnosis, individuals must experience at least one core emotional symptom and at least five symptoms in total from the following list:
- Decreased interest in usual activities
- Trouble concentrating
- Lethargy or lack of energy
- Changes in appetite, overeating, or specific food cravings
- Insomnia or sleeping too much
- Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- Physical symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, or muscle and joint pain
These symptoms must appear premenstrually and disappear by the end of menstruation. Not all severe premenstrual emotional changes indicate PMDD, as other mental illnesses can also worsen premenstrually.
Causes
The root causes of both PMS and PMDD are related to changes in hormones Estrogen and Progesterone levels, according to Dr. Dweck. It is not yet clear why some individuals experience PMS while others suffer from PMDD. The reasons for PMDD are still being investigated, but it is believed that those with PMDD may have more significant fluctuations in Estrogen and Progesterone levels. Additionally, individuals with mood disorders such as Bipolar disorder or Anxiety may be at a higher risk of developing PMDD.
Treatment options
Managing symptoms of PMS and PMDD involves a combination of lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and, in some cases, medication. While there’s no definitive cure, these treatments can help improve daily functioning and overall well-being, including:
Lifestyle changes
Light exercises, yoga, and dietary modifications can alleviate premenstrual symptoms. Reducing caffeine reduces anxiety and irritability while decreasing salt intake alleviates bloating and Edema.
Nutritional supplements
Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, Calcium, and Magnesium have demonstrated efficacy in managing symptoms. Studies suggest that 100mg of Vitamin B6 daily can alleviate PMS symptoms, while 1200-1600mg of Calcium supplements benefit women with PMS. Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties help reduce physical symptoms of PMDD and PMS.
Herbal therapies
Herbal supplements (black cohosh and evening primrose oil) have demonstrated the potential to alleviate symptoms. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before initiating any herbal treatment to ensure safety and efficacy.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs can relieve menstrual cramps and breast pain if taken during a period or around the time when symptoms start. These options include Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Mefenamic Acid.
Your doctor may recommend Brufen 400mg, Naprosyn 500 +, Ibugesic 200mg, or Meftal 250mg for menstrual cramps. Some medicines are available over the counter, while others may need a doctor’s prescription.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
These medications, known as SSRIs, regulate Serotonin levels in the brain. They are widely regarded as the primary treatment for managing depression and anxiety associated with PMS and PMDD.
Hormonal therapies
Hormonal therapies such as GnRH agonists (e.g., Leuprolide, Histrelin, Goserelin) can significantly alleviate symptoms like depression and irritability for both PMDD and PMS. Low-dose GnRH has been shown to reduce premenstrual irritation and depression while promoting positive mood changes. However, it may lead to anovulation with increasing age.
Also Read: You can read Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Treatment: Lifestyle Changes and Medical Options to learn more about the various treatment options available.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while PMS and PMDD share similarities in symptoms and hormonal origins, their severity and impact on daily life differ significantly. PMS, experienced by up to 90% of menstruating individuals, entails mild physical and emotional symptoms that typically don’t disrupt daily activities.
PMDD, affecting 2-8% of menstruating individuals, involves severe emotional symptoms that can profoundly interfere with daily functioning and relationships. Treatment for both conditions includes lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, herbal therapies, medication, and hormonal therapies to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Consulting a medical practitioner is essential to determine the most suitable or appropriate treatment approach based on individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PMS lead to PMDD?
Yes, PMS can sometimes progress to PMDD. While PMS involves common symptoms like bloating and headaches, PMDD is more severe, impacting daily life with intense emotional symptoms like depression and anxiety. Some with severe PMS may have undiagnosed PMDD. Treatment may include antidepressants and hormonal birth control.
Is PMDD more severe than PMS?
Yes, PMDD is a more severe form of PMS. The symptoms of PMDD are severe mood swings like depression, anxiety, and anger as compared to the symptoms of PMS like irritation, mood swings, etc. Some may also feel physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness.
What is the difference between PMS and PMDD?
The main difference between PMS and PMDD is the severity and type of symptoms. PMS typically includes mild physical symptoms like bloating and mood swings. At the same time, PMDD involves severe emotional symptoms like depression, anxiety, and intense mood swings that disrupt daily life and can be life-threatening.
What does a PMDD episode look like?
A PMDD episode may include severe mood symptoms such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and anger. Also, physical symptoms such as breast tenderness, bloating, and fatigue can be observed in some.
How much worse is PMDD than PMS?
PMDD is significantly worse than PMS. While PMS symptoms can be manageable, PMDD symptoms are severe, impacting work, social interactions, and relationships. Individuals with PMDD may struggle to handle daily tasks and maintain their mental well-being, sometimes even experiencing thoughts of self-harm.
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