Mood swings refer to gradual or sudden changes in people's emotions. For example, an individual may be excited one moment and extremely sad the next. Mood swings can occur as a result of menstrual cycles, mental illness and carrying a child in the uterus. Fortunately, the causes of mood swings can be treated.
Premenstrual Syndrome
MedlinePlus describes premenstrual syndrome as a condition in which women experience a wide variety of emotional and physical symptoms about 5 to 11 days prior to starting their menstrual cycle.
Specific symptoms can include mood swings, anxiety, irritability, forgetfulness and depression. Other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include low self-esteem, fatigue, trouble concentrating, an increase in guilt, a low sex drive and hostility.
The specific cause of premenstrual syndrome is not clear. However, it is said that social, cultural and biological factors play a role, says MedlinePlus.
Simply exercising daily and eating healthy foods can decrease premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Also, women may take such supplements as vitamin B6, magnesium or calcium. In some cases, birth control pills and anti-anxiety medication can decrease premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Other treatment options include taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, danazol and diuretics.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness in which people suffer from mood swings. According to the Mayo Clinic, bipolar disorder is divided into two phases: manic and depressive. The manic phase is characterized by euphoria, excitement, spending sprees, rapid speech, risky behavior, agitation and difficulty concentrating.
The depressive phase is characterized by sadness, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, trouble sleeping and suicidal thoughts or actions.
Changes in the brain and an imbalance in the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) or hormones can lead to bipolar disorder. Sometimes, bipolar disorder can be inherited. In some cases, stress, abuse and other traumatic events can lead to bipolar disorder, says the Mayo Clinic.
Treatment may involve hospitalization and taking such medications as lithium, anticonvulsants, antidepressants and benzodiazepines. A physician will determine the right combination of medication for bipolar disorder sufferers. Also, family or individual therapy is used in conjunction with medications. Sometimes, electroconvulsive therapy, also known as shock therapy, may be necessary for people who do not respond to medications and counseling.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a joyous time in a woman's life that can unfortunately lead to mood swings. The Mayo Clinic states that in the first trimester of pregnancy, women can experience emotions that range from anxiety to excitement. They also develop such symptoms as nausea and breast tenderness. These mood swings are normal as the hormones in the body are fluctuating.
