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Coping With Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Mar 14, 2016 10:01AM ● By News Desk

Some medical experts underestimate the impact that conditions like PMS and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) can have on a woman. Yet, any woman who suffers from PMDD knows that there is nothing trivial about it. PMDD is a severe form of PMS that can interfere with a woman’s daily life. There are physical symptoms such as breast tenderness and bloating. However, the worst symptoms of the condition are psychological. Women with PMDD are faced with anxiety and depression, along with anger and irritability that is very difficult to control. These symptoms can cause problems with romantic and family relationships, and cause a negative impact on the sufferer’s quality of life.

Approximately 3-9% of American women suffer from PMDD, according to the American Psychology Association. Many women who suffer from PMDD mistakenly believe that it is something that they simply have to learn to live with, but that isn’t true. There are many treatments available to treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder so that the symptoms are less severe. Below are a few tips on relieving symptoms.

Change Your Lifestyle

A few simple lifestyle changes can do wonders for some women when it comes to controlling the symptoms of PMDD. For instance, regular exercise and a healthy diet can be very helpful when it comes to easing the physical and psychological effects of this disorder. Nutritional supplements such as calcium and Evening Primrose capsules can also prove very effective. It is a good idea to avoid alcohol and caffeine while suffering the symptoms of PMDD.  Some women find that avoiding certain stressors helps them to avoid the anxiety associated with the condition. Therefore it is a good idea to try and avoid those situations you know are going to make you feel angry or irritable. Meditation is purported to help PMDD sufferers manage feelings of anger and irritability, too.

Communicate

PMDD sufferers often have problems in their relationships with others. It is therefore a good idea to explain to friends and loved ones what PMDD is, and the kind of impact it has on you. If loved ones know that the anger and irritability you exhibit have a medical cause, they will be less likely to take things personally. Furthermore when friends and family members are aware of your condition, they are in a better position to help you cope with it.

See Your Doctor

There are medicines available that help to treat the symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. For instance, doctors sometimes prescribe oral contraceptives to treat PMDD. Oral contraceptives stop ovulation and the associated hormonal fluctuations. Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, which are a kind of antidepressant medication, can also help with PMDD. They ease the symptoms of anger, anxiety and depression that many PMDD sufferers experience. To find out what medications might help you to manage your PMDD symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor.

PMDD affects the way you live. If you haven’t been properly diagnosed, see a physician to discuss your concerns. Taking action now can help with the relief of your condition.