You are feeling moody, and everyone is getting on your nerves.
Then, the cramps start, and a lightbulb goes on. Of course, it is almost that time of the month, and you are suffering from symptoms of PMS.
Most women know the drill. Premenstrual syndrome is just part of the deal. Some of us get a mild version every month, while some won’t even notice their period is on its way.
However, five percent of women will suffer from uncommon PMS symptoms that may indicate a more serious problem.
Suppose you are experiencing more severe symptoms before your period. In this case, you may be suffering from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, which can be debilitating.
Keep reading to learn more about this disorder and some extreme PMS symptoms it may cause.
Understanding PMS Symptoms
Nobody has a good time when they have PMS.
However, sometimes, you might have such severe PMS symptoms that it is difficult to function. In this case, your mood swings and irritability can impact your relationships and ability to work.
PMS usually begins after ovulation if you are not pregnant. These physical and psychological changes will go away once you start menstruating.
Scientists link PMS to sensitivity to progesterone and estrogen, which peak and then fall after ovulation. These hormones impact the release of chemicals that regulate your mood and behavior.
Before understanding if you may suffer from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, it is helpful to look at common PMS symptoms that women experience:
- Cramps
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Tender breasts
- Irritability
- Feeling weepy or sad
- Bloating
- Pimples
- Food cravings
These symptoms are unpleasant, but we can able to manage them without them impacting our lives too much.
What Is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?
Are your symptoms so bad that they impede your ability to live your life normally? If so, you might be suffering from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
The primary symptoms are the same, but you will experience them to a much higher degree.
For example, instead of feeling a tad irritable or anxious, you might find yourself experiencing panic attacks or severe feelings of depression. Mood swings will be much more powerful, and you may also feel a sense of hopelessness.
While typical PMS symptoms bring food cravings, some women experience full-blown binge eating on their period. This may just be a form of an eating disorder. However, it can also be a symptom of PMDD.
Here are other uncommon PMS symptoms that may be a sign of PMDD.
- Extreme tiredness
- Poor memory
- Difficulty concentrating
- Stomach issues
- Severe emotional sensitivity
- Paranoia
- Body aches or spasms
- Dizziness
- Clumsiness
- Blurred vision
- Tingling skin
- Insomnia
- Respiratory problems
- Hot flashes
- Acne or other skin disorders
In some cases, women might be misdiagnosed with depression or anxiety when they are, in fact, suffering from PMDD.
Dealing With Uncommon PMS Symptoms
If you suspect your symptoms before your period are more severe than they should be, have a chat with your doctor. There are ways to treat uncommon PMS symptoms that could make your life much easier.
If you enjoyed this article, take a look around our blog for more useful information on women’s health.
