PMS vs PMDD: What's the Difference

PMS vs PMDD: What’s the Difference

Once women reach puberty age, there are some details they need to keep track of and understand on a monthly basis. 

Some 75% of women have experienced symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) at some point. There are a variety of PMS symptoms that women deal with that can range from mild to severe. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a similar condition that women should be aware of. 

So, what are the differences? Here are some points that you should consider when comparing PMS vs PMDD. 

What Is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the various symptoms and ailments that women contend with when their periods are about to arrive. Some of the most common symptoms of PMS syndrome include:

  • Anxiety and stress
  • Tender breasts
  • Libido changes
  • Chronic fatigue
  • An increase in weight due to retaining water
  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Bloating

Knowing the ins and outs of PMS can help you deal with the symptoms as they come along. 

What Is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?

When you’re dealing with your menstrual cycle, make sure that you also understand the different symptoms that come with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). In general, PMDD is PMS of the most severe variety. 

The symptoms of PMDD happen during the luteal phase of your period and may be more difficult to contend with than typical PMS symptoms. 

How Can You Manage the Symptoms of Both?

Knowing how to deal with premenstrual issues can help your quality of life and your health as a whole. The good thing is that whether you’re dealing with PMS or PMDD, many of the same remedies and lifestyle changes apply. 

There are several steps you can take to help ease these woes, including:

Fixing Your Diet

When you can manage your nutrition, it’s easier for you to get the intake of vitamins and nutrients that you need to keep these issues at bay. Make sure that you observe a balanced diet that includes plenty of healthy proteins, fruits, and vegetables. You can also supplement with vitamins to help with PMS symptoms. 

Eat a clean diet and make sure that you’re drinking plenty of water to better circulate any supplements that you take. 

Get Plenty of Exercise

You can also manage your PMS and PMDD symptoms when you’re more active. Work on building muscle, burning fat, and getting lots of cardiovascular exercise. 

The fitter and stronger you are, the easier it’ll be to deal with these sorts of issues. You will also improve your blood circulation and will have more energy in your daily life. Women who work out regularly also find that they have less fatigue and brain fog, and end up making healthier decisions on a daily and weekly basis.

Understanding the Differences Between PMS vs PMDD

Learning as much as you can about PMS vs PMDD will help you handle the symptoms as they come along. Making the right decisions will help your quality of life for the next several years. Speak to a doctor if your issues are particularly severe. 

Check out our other articles for more women’s health advice to help you in your regular life.