When to Seek Medical Care

If you have symptoms of PMS that do not go away within 3-4 days of the start of your period, call your doctor. You may have a different medical problem.

When the typical symptoms of PMS become so severe that your lifestyle is drastically altered, talk with your health care provider.

• Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms for signs of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a mental health concern, which should be diagnosed and treated.
  
  
• Serious signs may also signify other mental or medical problems. Psychiatric diagnoses such as chronic depression, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders may overlap with the diagnosis of PMDD. Medical considerations include hormone imbalances, thyroid disorders, electrolyte problems, and low levels of red blood cells. Your doctor will want to rule out these more serious medical problems.
  
  
• If you have such serious mood changes or behavior changes that you feel you may hurt yourself or another person, seek medical care immediately at a hospital’s emergency department.

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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) - Effective Treatments

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