Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). If you suffer from extreme physical and emotional distress a week or two before your period, you may have PMDD.
PMDD Symptoms
Not only do women with PMDD suffer from physical symptoms, but they experience psychological and behavioral symptoms as well. Symptoms occur a week or two before your period, and typically improve within a few days after your period begins. Symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with your everyday life.
Emotional Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Anger
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Difficulty concentrating
- Tension
- Anxiety / panic attacks
- Depression
- Extreme irritability
Physical Symptoms
- PMS symptoms
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite and/or binge eating
- Insomnia
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
What Causes It?
The cause of PMDD isn’t actually known. However, decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone after ovulation and before starting your period may trigger symptoms.
The brain chemical serotonin, which regulates hunger, sleep and mood, may also play a role as they constantly change throughout your menstrual cycle.
Diagnosing PMDD
Make an appointment with your gynecologist – a doctor who is board-certified in female health – and have an open and honest discussion about your symptoms. From there, your GYN will take a medical history and evaluate your symptoms. Once other conditions such as depression, reproductive disorders or anxiety are ruled out, you may be asked to track your symptoms over one or two menstrual cycles to check for a pattern. Your doctor will look for five or more PMDD symptoms, including one mood-related symptom.
Is There a Treatment for PMDD?
There are various treatments or ways to help manage PMDD. Your GYN may recommend one or more of the following:
- A nutritious diet – Cutting your caffeine intake as well as reducing fatty, surgary or salty foods may help.
- Exercise – Regular exercise may help improve mood and anxiety. Breathing exercises and meditation may also help.
- Birth control – Birth control that contains drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol.
- Antidepressants – Certain antidepressants can help manage your brain’s serotonin levels.
- OTC pain medicines – Over-the-counter pain medicines can help reduce cramps, headaches, breast tenderness and other physical symptoms.
What Happens if Left Untreated?
PMDD can cause extreme depression and in severe cases, may result in suicide. Relationships and careers can suffer as a result of the severe physical and emotional symptoms.
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.8255. You’ll receive free and confidential emotional support 24/7.
Talk to Your GYN Today if You Suspect PMDD
While PMDD can be physically and emotionally debilitating, most women can get relief from their symptoms and enjoy a full life. Make an appointment with one of our compassionate GYNs today. Call us at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online.
