Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also known as PMDD or Super PMT, is a condition that arises before menstruation and causes symptoms similar to PMS, such as food cravings, mood swings, menstrual cramps or excessive tiredness.
However, unlike PMS, in dysphoric disorder, these symptoms become disabling and make daily tasks difficult. In some women, premenstrual dysphoric disorder can even lead to the onset of anxiety attacks or the development of depression.
Although the specific causes for the appearance of this disorder are not yet known, it is possible that it happens mainly in people with a greater disposition for emotional variations, as they are accentuated by hormonal changes in menstruation.
Main symptoms of PMDD
In addition to the common symptoms of PMS, such as breast pain, abdominal swelling, tiredness or mood swings, people with premenstrual dysphoric disorder should experience an emotional or behavioral symptom, such as:
- Extreme sadness or feeling of despair; Anxiety and excessive stress; Very sudden changes in mood; Frequent irritability and anger; Panic attacks; Difficulty falling asleep; Difficulty concentrating.
Usually these symptoms appear about 7 days before menstruation and can last up to 3 to 5 days after the start of the menstrual period, however, the feelings of sadness and anxiety can remain for a longer time and not disappear between each menstruation.
When a woman develops depression, the frequent onset of this type of symptoms also increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and, therefore, it is very important to have the appropriate treatment of depression with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
How to confirm that it is TDPM
There is no test or exam to confirm the diagnosis of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, so the gynecologist will be able to identify the disorder only by describing the symptoms.
In some cases, the doctor may even order tests, such as ultrasound or CT scan, just to confirm that there is no other change in the pelvic area that may be causing the symptoms of severe abdominal cramps or swelling, for example.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of PMDD is done to relieve the woman's symptoms and, therefore, it can vary from case to case. However, the main forms of treatment include:
- Antidepressants, such as Fluoxetine or Sertraline: help to relieve symptoms of sadness, despair, anxiety and mood swings and can also improve the feeling of tiredness and difficulty sleeping; Contraceptive pill: allows hormonal levels to be regulated throughout the menstrual cycle, and may reduce all symptoms of PMDD; Analgesics, such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen: relieve headache, menstrual cramps or pain in the breasts, for example; Supplementation of calcium, vitamin B6 or magnesium: may be a natural option to relieve symptoms in some women; Medicinal plants, such as Vitex agnus-castus: reduce irritability and frequent mood swings, as well as breast pain, bloating and menstrual cramps.
In addition, it is also important to have a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, exercising at least 3 times a week and avoiding substances such as alcohol and cigarettes, for example.
Sleeping 7 to 8 hours a night or practicing relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness , yoga or meditation, can also reduce stress and improve the emotional symptoms caused by premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Also check out some homemade options that help to relieve PMS symptoms and that can also improve PMDD.
