Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Many women experience physical and emotional changes several days before menstruation begins. This can be normal. But PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a collection of physical, cognitive, and affective symptoms causing clinically significant distress or interference that occur in the seven days prior to the onset on menses, after which they become minimal or absent. Symptoms, which may include breast swelling or tenderness, headaches, fatigue, bloating, acne, anxiety, irritability, mood swings and depression, commonly subside a day or two after menstruation begins. When the symptoms of PMS are severe and disrupt daily activities, a diagnosis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) may be made.
Nolensville Psychiatry treats PMDD at our office serving the city of Nashville and surrounding areas of Franklin, La Vergne, Smyrna, Brentwood, Oak Hill, Forest Hills, Thompson's Station, Triune, Arrington and Almaville, Tennessee.
Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
In addition to the physical symptoms associated with PMS, individuals suffering from PMDD may experience chronic and intensified emotional and behavioral symptoms that can disrupt daily life, and may include the following:
- Extreme moodiness
- Irritability
- Anger
- Depression
- Tension
- Anxiety
PMDD may also affect sleep habits and appetite. Symptoms may begin 7 to 10 days before a woman's period, and continue for the first few days after the start of menstruation.
Cause of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
The exact cause of PMDD is not known; however, hormonal changes during menstruation may affect preexisting mood disorders such as anxiety or depression. PMDD may worsen the symptoms of these underlying conditions, although not all women with PMDD have an underlying mood disorder.
Treatment of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Treatment for PMDD focuses on minimizing symptoms, and may initially include conservative treatments such as exercise, diet and lifestyle changes. When symptoms are severe and do not respond to these types of treatment, birth control pills may be recommended to regulate hormones, and antidepressant medication may be prescribed to treat symptoms of depression and anxiety.