Do You Have A Premenstrual Disorder?

It is unlikely that there is any woman in the world who looks forward with anticipation to her monthly period. It is simply something we have to deal with and try not to let it interrupt our normal lives and schedules. For some women, though, this is nearly impossible.

Although most women experience some of the symptoms of PMS, and often call any level of moodiness or irritability PMS, the clinical definition is a little more serious. To have a PMS disorder clinically, you must consistently experience a number of symptoms, mostly emotional and but also common physical symptoms can apply.

PMS is one thing, but when symptoms become very severe, making it impossible to function normally in social and occupational circles, a more serious premenstrual disorder is likely the cause. The most severe type of PMS is referred to as PMDD for premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

The symptoms of each type of premenstrual disorder are mostly the same. They include irritability, depression, tension and moodiness. Physical symptoms might consist of bloating, cramping, headache, breast tenderness and sleeping problems. With the more severe premenstrual disorder (PMDD) some of these symptoms, especially the emotional ones can become almost debilitating.

In recent years more interest and research has been done into the causes of PMS disorders. Still, there is much that is not fully understood, and many skeptics feel that giving such names and attention to these disorders is nothing more than medicalizing natural and normal human behaviors.

However, those suffering from a PMS disorder know that it really can feel out of your control at times. If you feel this way, you should certainly see a doctor to find out if it really is PMS or PMDD and get some advice about what you can do about it.

Whether you do have a clinical case, or just suffer from some common symptoms, there are some simple steps you can take before you decide to try medication or other treatments. In many cases a simple change in diet and increased exercise is enough to bring your symptoms down to a tolerable level.

Although you may experience cravings for sweet or fatty foods, steering clear of them and making sure that you eat plenty of healthy foods can help you to maintain a good blood sugar level, which in turn can improve your sense of wellbeing. Also, stay away from foods that can exacerbate emotional issues such as caffeine and alcohol.

Aerobic exercise is a natural mood enhancer and helps reduce stress. Those most difficult times of the month are the perfect time to try the effectiveness of this natural cure!

In dealing with any premenstrual disorder you may suffer from, try making these simple diet and exercise changes, and if you still have problems that interfere with your everyday life, definitely see a doctor about other possible steps you can take under his direction.

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