Many women experience the effects of premenstrual tension before their period; but in some women these symptoms can take on larger than life proportions in the form of severe physical and psychological symptoms that seriously disrupt their lifestyle. When the symptoms of PMS are extreme, a woman may be diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric syndrome, a condition that might best be likened to PMS on steroids.

While many women experience mood changes with PMS; women with premenstrual dysphoric syndrome may have extreme episodes of anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and problems functioning on the job and at home. Physical symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder include extreme fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and joint pain. With the disruptive nature of these symptoms, finding relief is important. Is there an effective treatment for premenstrual dysphoric syndrome?

While PMS symptoms will frequently improve with simple measures like eliminating caffeine, lowering salt intake, eating a well balanced, nutrient rich diet, and, sometimes, taking calcium or magnesium supplements; premenstrual dysphoric syndrome doesn’t always respond to these measures, although they may be effective for some women. There’s some evidence that regular aerobic exercise can be an effective treatment for premenstrual dysphoric syndrome.

Although natural treatments for premenstrual dysphoric disorder would be ideal, the best results have been achieved using a group of prescription medications called SSRI’s (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). This class of medications alters the re-uptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin, making more of it available to the brain. This can have a positive impact on mood which is why these medications are also used to treat depression. It’s thought that the fluctuating hormone levels that play a role in causing the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric syndrome may also affect serotonin levels which is why SSRI’s are such an effective treatment.

Unfortunately, use of SSRI’s for premenstrual dysphoric disorder treatment is not without the potential for side effects. SSRI’s can cause digestive upset, dizziness, weight gain, dry mouth, headache, and insomnia, among other symptoms. When SSR’s are discontinued, withdrawal type symptoms can occur including flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and dizziness.

If you’ve been diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, what are your options? If you’re concerned about the side effects of SSRI’s, consider taking a natural approach at first. Start a regular exercise program consisting of thirty minutes of aerobic exercise every other day. Eliminate caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine from your diet which can make the mood swings worse. Eat smaller, more frequent meals that are low in simple carbohydrates and sugar to keep blood sugar levels normalized. Ask your doctor if a calcium and magnesium supplement would be appropriate for you as these have been shown to help PMS.

If these measures fail to work in six weeks, talk to your doctor about the possibility of using a SSRI as treatment for premenstrual dysphoric syndrome. Although not a natural treatment option, it does help many women deal with the symptoms. As always, discuss these treatment options with your doctor.

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