Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Symptoms
Depression, Fatigue, Anxiety, Stress, Mood Swings and Panic Attacks
Oct 16, 2009
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) refers to a cluster of severe premenstrual symptoms that include depression, irritability and mood swings. Symptoms of PMDD are not the same as PMS symptoms – premenstrual dysphoric disorder resembles clinical depression as much as premenstrual syndrome.
Emotional and Behavioral PMDD Symptoms
Despite PMDD’s link to a physical condition – menstruation – PMDD symptoms are primarily emotional in nature. Symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder occur in the week prior to menstrual bleeding. Symptoms begin to diminish a few days after bleeding starts, only to recur at the next point in the menstrual cycle.
Emotional and behavioral PMDD symptoms include:
- anger and irritability
- anxiety or panic attacks
- changes in appetite, including overeating
- difficulty concentrating
- fatigue / loss of energy
- feeling “out of control”
- feeling hopeless or worthless
- food cravings
- increased arguing or interpersonal conflicts
- increased need for sleep
- insomnia
- loss of interest in normal activities
- mood swings
- sudden feelings of overwhelming sadness
- tearfulness
- tension (feeling “on edge”).
In some cases, premenstrual dysphoric disorder causes suicidal thoughts or behavior. Signs of suicidal behavior should always be considered an emergency, whether caused by PMDD, depression, or other factors.
Physical PMDD Symptoms
The emotional symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder resemble depression so much that the two conditions could easily be confused. PMDD symptoms, however, also include physical symptoms not found with depression (but common enough in cases of premenstrual syndrome). Physical symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder include:
- bloating / swelling
- headaches
- joint pain
- muscle pain
- tender breasts
- weight gain.
Relieving PMDD Symptoms
PMDD treatment includes psychotherapy ad antidepressants. In addition, women may find some relief from PMDD symptoms by exercising regularly and getting sufficient sleep throughout the month. Eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains while limiting sugar, alcohol and caffeine may also help reduce symptoms of PMDD.
Accomplishing these goals can be difficult in the midst of PMDD symptoms, which tend to sap women of energy while disrupting sleep. Women who make exercise, a healthy diet and proper sleep hygiene part of their daily lives are most likely to benefit from such habits when premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms develop.
Women who seek medical help for PMDD generally have positive results. With proper care, it’s possible to reduce PMDD symptoms to manageable levels, or even have symptoms disappear.
Resources
Htay, T., Aung, K., Carrick, J., Papica, R. (Retrieved 9 October, 2009). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (Retrieved 9 October, 2009). Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute in any way for care and treatment by a qualified health professional.
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