Understanding PMDD

Who is Affected?

About 75% of women experience mild to moderate premenstrual symptoms. But up to 10% of menstruating women have premenstrual dysphoric disorder a sever sometimes disabling form of PMS.

Symptoms of PMDD?

PMDD is distinguished from PMS by the severity of its symptoms and its impact on the relationships and daily activities. Symptoms of PMDD which occur in the last week of the menstrual cycle and usually improve within a few days after menstruation begins, include:

Persistent sadness or depression

Anxiety being keyed up or on edge

Mood swings often marked by periods of crying.

Persistent anger or irritability

Fatigue, lethargy

Feelings of being overwhelmed or out of control

Flu like symptoms, muscle aches, head aches & joint pain

Breast tenderness

Changes in sleep patterns, problems falling and staying asleep.

Changes in appetite – overeating, lack of eating or specific food cravings.

The cause isn’t clear. Major depression is very common  with PMDD but it can also occur in woman who do not have a history of depression.

Treatment for PMDD

There is no cure for PMDD

Treatment of PMDD is directed at preventing or minimizing symptoms:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) such as Naproxen

Antidepressant (SSRI) reduces symptoms of fatigue, food cravings & sleep problems

Oral contraceptives stop ovulation & stabilize hormone fluctuations which reduce mood swings.

Consuming 1,000mg of Calcium will reduce the physical and emotional symptoms of PMDD B-6 + Magnesium also help

L-Tryptophan + Chasteberry reduce irritability, mood swings anger and head aches associated with PMDD

Diet and lifestyle changes will also help

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