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In this podcast, we talk about the difference between PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and perimenopause. \xa0We get this question all the time, Doc, I think I am going into menopause.' When really, they are nowhere near menopause, let alone perimenopause. What makes it so confusing is that there are so many similarities between PMS and perimenopause. \nBut some distinctions are important to point out, especially when it comes to testing and treatment. PMS (premenstrual syndrome) is pretty much as it sounds. \xa0Symptoms appear prior (pre) to the period (menses). But usually, the symptoms appear in a cyclical pattern. \nThe symptoms will appear anywhere from 14 days to just a couple of days before the period. The distinction between PMS and perimenopause, is the symptoms are present all month in perimenopause.\nPerimenopause is NOT menopause. \xa0It is the time before a woman enters menopause. \xa0It can be anywhere from age late 30's to late 40s. \xa0In perimenopause, you are still getting your period (it might be irregular, but you are STILL getting your period). \xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\nBut the symptoms between PMS and perimenopause are similar. \nSo just to reiterate:\n\nSymptoms in PMS occur between 14 days to 2 days before your period.\nSymptoms in perimenopause occur all month long.\n\nSymptoms that are similar in PMS and perimenopause:\n\nIrritability: patience is short. \xa0Becomes easily irritated, even at situations that it is not warranted. \xa0Of course, you feel guilty after having a hormonal tantrum and cry and feel badly about the encounter. \xa0You are not crazy, it is your hormones.\nAcne\nCarb cravings\nSleep issues \u2013waking in the middle of the night and cannot go back to sleep\nFatigue: low energy\u2013both physically and mentally tired\nAnxiousness not always warranted for the situation\nBloated: even though your bowels are moving fine\nCramping before period even starts\n\nSymptoms that are different between PMS and Perimenopause\n\nAll of a sudden your periods get weird. \xa0Periods come early or late. Your spot for days. \xa0One month your period is super heavy, and the next kinda light. \xa0Every month can be different in perimenopause.\nCrampy painful periods\nSymptoms all month long in perimenopause\u2013it is like #pmsallmonthlong\nSymptoms 14 days to 2 days before your period\nHair loss