Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and debilitating form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Though PMDD and PMS share some similar symptoms, such as irritability, bloating, and headaches, the difference between the two is that PMDD symptoms are much more severe. In addition, women with PMDD may have depressive symptoms, panic attacks, extreme anger, and anxiety.
PMDD affects up to 8% of women of reproductive age and is characterized by depression, anxiety, irritability, and other symptoms that interfere with work, school, and social activities. PMDD is often misdiagnosed as depression or anxiety, but it is a distinct condition that requires its own treatment approach.
While the exact cause of PMDD is unknown, it is thought to be related to hormonal and neurotransmitter imbalances during the menstrual cycle. Treatment for PMDD typically involves medication, supplements, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes. With proper treatment, most women with PMDD are able to manage their symptoms and live full lives.
Common Signs of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
The most common symptom of PMDD is depression, which can range from mild sadness to thoughts of suicide. Other common symptoms include:
1. Severe mood swings – Severe mood swings: Women with PMDD may experience drastic changes in mood, from feeling happy and excited one moment to feeling angry and sad the next. These mood swings can be so severe that they interfere with work, school, and social activities.
2. Depression – Many women with PMDD feel depressed and hopeless in the days leading up to their period. They may have trouble concentrating, sleeping, and eating.
3. Anxiety – Anxiety is a common sign of PMDD. If you’re feeling more anxious than usual, it could be a sign that your hormones are out of balance and you might be suffering from PMDD.
4. Irritability – Another common symptom of PMDD can include irritability, which can manifest as feeling easily annoyed or angered. This may be due to hormonal changes that affect mood.
5. Sleep problems – Women with PMDD may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, and may wake up feeling tired and unrested.
6. Concentration difficulties – Concentration difficulties may also be a symptom of PMDD. This can make it hard to focus on tasks or remember things. Hormonal changes may again be a contributing factor.
7. Fatigue – Lastly, Fatigue is another common symptom of PMDD. This can range from feeling slightly tired to complete exhaustion. Hormonal changes and lack of sleep can both contribute to fatigue.
Most women with PMDD find that their symptoms begin 7-10 days before their period and resolve within a few days after their period starts. However, some women experience symptoms throughout their entire cycle. Physical symptoms such as bloating, and headaches are also common.
If you are experiencing signs of PMDD, it is important to get help as soon as possible. The earlier you start treatment, the better your chances are of managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
Who Is This PMDD Quiz For?
If you’ve been feeling off lately and suspect you may have PMDD, take this Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder quiz to see if your symptoms align with the diagnostic criteria. It is not a diagnostic tool but it will ask you about the symptoms you’ve been experiencing and how severe they are.
Once you’ve completed the quiz, you’ll get a score that will tell you whether or not your symptoms match with people experiencing PMDD.
How Accurate Is This Quiz?
This quiz is NOT a tool to identify mental health disorders. Only a licensed mental health care professional or specialist can diagnose mental health disorders.
MySelfCareNotes believes that self-assessments can be an initial step toward getting treatment. Too many people tend to avoid seeking professional assistance out of fear that their objections are not serious or legit enough.
