Coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A Guide for Young Person

What Exactly is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a condition that happens during the premenstrual stage of the menstrual cycle. It has symptoms similar to those found in depression and anxiety, but subsides as you progress through your cycle. PMDD, also known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, affects almost six percent of women and AFAB individuals of reproductive age. PMDD is directly connected with the menstrual cycle, but it is not a result of a hormone imbalance. It occurs when there is an exaggeration to the natural rise and fall of estrogen. It is a suspected brain disorder that can worsen over time - symptoms get worse during certain moments in a persons' lifetime such as the first menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth, miscarriage and perimenopause.

People with PMDD are more likely than other people to commit suicide or self-harm. It's not uncommon for this issue to be linked to sexual trauma or depression beforehand. If you believe you or someone you know has PMDD, talk with a doctor as soon as possible

How to Recognize if You Have PMDD

People with PMDD experience mood swings and irritability or depression, and may also experience physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness. If you have been experiencing these symptoms for a significant amount of time, it is worth considering that you might have PMDD.

PMDD can be divided into two categories: physical and psychological. To diagnose the condition, you should experience at least five physical symptoms or two psychological symptoms for at least one month.

• Feelings of sadness, despair, or even thoughts of suicide

• Lack of interest in daily activities and relationships

• Trouble thinking or focusing

• Tiredness or low-energy

• Food cravings or binge eating

• Trouble sleeping

• Feeling out of control

• Physical symptoms include bloating, breast tenderness, headaches and muscle pain

These symptoms occur before menstruations and usually go away a few days after menstruation starts.

What are the Risk Factors for Getting PMDD?

PMDD is a mood disorder that affects women during the days surrounding the menstrual cycle.

While any woman can develop PMDD, the following may be at increased risk:

• Family history of PMS or PMDD

• Personal history of depression or order mood disorders

• Past history of trauma and sexual abuse

• Cigarette smoking and lower education

Talk with your healthcare provider for more information.

How is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder PMDD Diagnosis Made

PMDD is a disorder that consists of physical and emotional symptoms which affect women during the second half of their menstrual cycle. There are no blood blood test or imaging to diagnose PMDD. Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and the timing of the symptoms which is usually 14 days before the onset of menstruation. The diagnosis is made by taking a medical history and examining patients for other disorders which may mimic PMDD .

Symptoms:

- Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, sadness

- Body pain, breast tenderness or swelling, bloating or weight gain

- Food cravings, feeling bloated or constipated

PMDD Treatment Options

PMDD is a serious, chronic illness. Some treatment approaches that may help relieve or decrease the severity of PMDD symptoms:

• Dietary modification: eat foods rich in vegetables, lean protein and complex carbohydrates.

• Avoid or limit foods with simple sugar, processed foods salt, caffeine and alcohol.

• Exercise regularly

• Reduce Stress

• Adequate sleep

• Vitamin supplements (such as vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium)

• Anti-inflammatory medicines

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)

• Birth control pills

Treatment can require a long-term commitment for some women with PMDD and changes in dosage may need to be adjusted throughout treatment.

Conclusion - There are Many Ways You Can Deal with Pre-Existing PMDD Symptoms. Here's What We Recommend!

PMDD is a mental health problem that can be really hard to deal with. But thankfully, there are many ways you can deal with PMDD symptoms. Here's what we recommend!

Seek treatment. Find a professional that can help. It is not uncommon for the symptoms of PMDD to be an indicator of an underlying condition such as depression or anxiety or mimic those conditions. If you think you might have PMDD or a related disorder, it’s important to seek medical attention and support from a medical professional knowledgeable about PMDD.

With treatment options that include lifestyle changes, medications, nutritional supplements and psychotherapy, symptoms of PMDD can be improved and managed successfully.