Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): What You Need to Know
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. It causes physical and emotional symptoms every menstrual cycle in the week or two before your period. These symptoms can interfere with your daily life, relationships, and well-being.
What are the Symptoms of PMDD?
Symptoms of PMDD vary by individual. They tend to appear a week or two before menstruation and go away within a few days of your period starting. In addition to PMS symptoms like cramping and bloating, you may have:
- Anger or irritability
- Feeling on edge, overwhelmed or tense
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue and low energy
- Food cravings, binge eating or changes in appetite
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
For some people, symptoms of PMDD last until menopause.
What Causes PMDD?
Experts don’t know why some people get PMDD. It may be an abnormal reaction to normal hormone changes that happen with each menstrual cycle. The hormone changes can cause a serotonin deficiency. Serotonin is a substance found naturally in the brain and intestines that narrows blood vessels and can affect mood and cause physical symptoms.
What are the Risk Factors for PMDD?
You may be more prone to PMDD if you have:
- Anxiety or depression
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Family history of PMS, PMDD or mood disorders
- Personal history of trauma, abuse, or other highly stressful events
What are the Complications of PMDD?
Untreated PMDD can lead to depression and, in severe cases, suicide. The disorder can cause severe emotional distress and negatively affect relationships and careers. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, please talk to us immediately. We are a supportive team of female medical doctors strictly focused on women's health care.
How is PMDD Diagnosed?
Aside from a complete medical history and physical and pelvic exam, there are very few diagnostic tests for PMDD. Diagnosis involves noting the medical history of the patient to evaluate the symptoms. Some tests that may be used to exclude other conditions are:
- Thyroid function tests: Used to exclude thyroid disorders
- Complete blood count: Used to exclude anaemia
- Hormone test: Used to exclude perimenopause or menopause
How is PMDD Treated?
Treatment mainly aims at relieving the symptoms. There are different options that may work for different people. Some of them are:
- Medication: Diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta blockers, antidepressants, nutritional supplements, and hormone therapy may help reduce symptoms.
- Light therapy: The therapy which uses fluorescent light to treat depression.
- Relaxation techniques: Technique used to provide relaxation by reducing the blood pressure and lowering the rate of breathing.
- Lifestyle changes: Doing regular physical exercise, improving sleep routine, eating a well-balanced diet, and avoiding smoking may help manage the condition.
Where can I get help with PMDD?
Book a consultation with us and get the best support you could ever ask for. You are not alone. There's help available.
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