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Post by Sam on Mar 14, 2016 20:17:49 GMT
As anyone who has ever menstruated knows, getting your period can be the absolute worst thing — in addition to the uncontrollable bleeding that tends to start at the most inconvenient time (All the gorgeous panties ruined!) most of us also have to deal with cramping, bloating, fatigue and the other fun symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). So unless you’re one of those rare and fortunate souls who has never had a menstrual cramp in her life, then you’re probably all too familiar with the nightmare that is PMS.
If your PMS symptoms are off-the-charts crazy, you may actually be suffering from PMDD without even realizing it.
So what is PMDD, and how can you tell the difference between that and regular PMS?
PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a severe form of PMS that affects between 2-8% of all menstruating women. (This percentile obviously changes with the release of new studies and medical advancements.) Although the symptoms of both conditions are similar, PMDD symptoms differ from those of regular PMS. The reason- they are actually severe enough to interfere with your work, social activities and your relationships.
Though the causes of PMDD are unclear, research suggests that women who experience PMDD may also have low levels of the brain chemical serotonin (the hormone that helps your brain transmit nerve signals). It’s also worth noting that women with a personal or family history of depression and/or postpartum depression are at higher risk of developing the condition. If you think you might be suffering from PMDD, it’s important to find out for sure so you can start treatment for it straight away.
~S
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