If you are having any symptoms or have any questions, please call 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day.

OVERVIEW

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)?

PMDD is a severe form of a common problem called premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. About 75% of women of childbearing age have some PMS problems. About 3% to 9% of women in this age group have PMDD.

SYMPTOMS

How do I know if I have PMDD?

The symptoms of PMDD are:

• Sadness and crying
• Feeling nervous or anxious
• Anger or irritability
• Strong cravings for certain foods
• Problems paying attention and concentrating
• Fatigue
• Physical problems such as breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain and swelling or bloating
• Trouble sleeping

These symptoms can affect your relationships and work ability. If you have some of these symptoms 10 to 14 days before your period and they improve when your period starts, you might have PMDD. To help diagnose PMDD, your healthcare provider may ask you to chart your symptoms.

CAUSES & RISK FACTORS

What causes PMDD?

The exact cause of PMDD is not known. Changes in hormones related to your period may cause PMDD. Stressful life events and a family history of PMS or PMDD may increase your chances of getting PMDD. Major depression is common in women who have PMDD. However, not all women who have PMDD have major depression.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTS

How does my healthcare provider find out if I have PMDD?

Your healthcare provider will check your symptoms and the way they relate to your menstrual cycle. You might track your symptoms for several weeks. There is no test that can diagnose PMDD.

TREATMENT

How is PMDD treated?

Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and will discuss different treatments with you. For mild to moderate symptoms, your healthcare provider may suggest changes in your diet and lifestyle. You might talk to a counselor about your PMDD symptoms and life stresses. Medicines may help with severe symptoms.

What medicines are helpful?

Certain medicines used to treat depression also treat PMDD. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) help by increasing the effect of a brain chemical called serotonin.

Does that mean I have depression?

No. These medicines work for both conditions.

How often do I have to take these medicines?

Some women may need medication only for the last two weeks of their menstrual cycle, while other women may need to take medication daily to help their symptoms.

What if these medicines do not work?

Your healthcare provider knows about other treatments. After talking with you, your healthcare provider might have you try something else.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

• Do I have PMDD or PMS?
• What is the difference between PMDD and PMS?
• What treatment is best for me?
• Will I have to take medicine until menopause?
• Could I also have depression?
• What are the side effects of my medicine?
• How long will I have to take my medicine?
• Is there anything I can do at home to help myself?

Sources

Diagnosis and Treatment of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder by Subhash C. Bhatia, M.D., and Shashi K. Bhatia, M.D. (10/01/02, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20021001/1239.html)