Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
(PMDD)
Pronounced: PRE-men-strawl dis-FOR-ick dis-OR-der
Definition
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) occurs just prior to menstruation and is characterized by significant:
- Depression
- Irritability
- Tension
PMDD is much more severe and less common than PMS .
Menstruation causes many hormonal changes, which may play a role in PMDD.
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the risk of PMDD include:
- Having hormonal changes
- Having a family history of PMDD
- Experiencing a lot of stress or a traumatic life event
- Having depression or another mental health condition
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Extreme sadness
- Frequent crying
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Unusually strong cravings for certain foods
- Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Mood swings
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Physical symptoms (eg, sore breasts, headaches, joint or muscle pain, swelling, bloating)
Symptoms typically begin 10-14 days prior to the start of menstruation.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will diagnose PMDD based on your symptoms. You may be asked to keep a record of when your symptoms occur and how severe they are.
Your doctor may also order:
- Blood tests
- Tests to check hormone levels
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Lifestyle Changes
These steps can help manage symptoms of PMDD:
- Exercise throughout the week.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.
- Learn stress management techniques.
- Improve your sleep habits.
Medications
Your doctor may recommend:
- Antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs])
- Oral contraceptives
- Nutritional supplements
Prevention
To reduce your chance of PMDD, take these steps:
- Get plenty of exercise and rest.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Manage stress.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Andrea Chisholm
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
