Is It PMS or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?
The Doctors discuss how women who have debilitating PMS could actually be suffering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Alyssa tells The Doctors that around the time of her period that she experiences "so much rage." She says this often leads to arguments with her loved ones and says at times she cannot even remember why she got so angry.
Watch: Control Your PMS Cravings
"I just feel really out of touch with reality and not like my normal self," she says, asking if they have any recommendations on how she can regulate her emotions during this time.
OB/GYN Dr. Nita Landry explains that PMS can include things like mood swings, crying spells, acne breakouts, food cravings, breast tenderness and weight gain due to fluid retention. But with PMMD, Dr. Nita says it is "PMS to the max."
Watch: Is PMS a Mental Illness?
She says PMDD can include all of the PMS symptoms along with feelings of sadness or hopelessness, anxiety, tension, extreme moodiness, irritability, and anger. She goes on to explain that the causes of PMS and PMDD are not known, but doctors believe it is due to a hormonal change.
Dr. Nita some ways to treat PMS and PMDD are a hormonal birth control, antidepressants, a healthy diet, and getting exercise. She also recommends avoiding caffeine and tobacco. She also notes that some women benefit from taking calcium and magnesium.
The Doctors also share the alarming statistic that 15 percent of women with PMDD attempt suicide and encourage anyone suffering from this to speak to their gynecologist.
