Have your mood swings gone off the deep end? During that time of the month do you turn into a completely different person? There’s a name for this condition and it’s not PMS - it’s PMDD. But you’re not alone. Believe it or not, more doctors are beginning to recognize the number of women suffering from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a very severe form of PMS. While only 3-5% of women suffer from PMDD, doctors and other medical professionals take this condition very seriously. Women dealing with PMDD often deal with severe depression, violent mood swings, anxiety, anger, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, among a score of other symptoms. As if that isn’t bad enough, there are physical as well as emotional symptoms, including headaches, sleep problems, changes in appetite, joint and muscle pain and breast tenderness. These symptoms typically occur the week before menstruation.

One of the most disturbing factors about women with PMDD, is that this condition can put them at risk of developing postpartum depression. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a condition that can literally disrupt a woman’s everyday life. Lack of sleep, irritability and severe mood swings can take its toll, leading to suicidal thoughts or feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Women who have a history of depression are more likely to develop PMDD. Unfortunately, PMS and PMDD are very similar, which makes it hard for people to understand the seriousness of this condition. The easiest way to tell the difference between the two is to compare it to a headache and a migraine. A headache is common and a minor nuisance, while a migraine causes extreme pain and discomfort. PMDD is not a condition that should be taken lightly.

Sometimes the symptoms of PMDD are overlooked and automatically blamed on PMS. This can be dangerous because the symptoms may get worse without the person realizing their condition. To find out if you may have PMDD, monitor your mood swings and behavior prior to getting your monthly cycle. Keep a diary and write down any incidents that may have happened as a result of the PMDD, symptoms you are experiencing and the severity of your condition.

Because there isn’t an actual test for PMDD, it is important to talk to your doctor if you feel you may be experiencing the symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. He/she may suggest getting a psychiatric evaluation as well as antidepressants to control the mood swings and depression. The cause of PMDD isn’t known, but doctors suspect that in some women, the hormone changes that happen during menstruation can trigger PMDD symptoms. In severe cases, hormone therapy may be used. Treatments for PMDD vary based on the severity of each case so if you or anyone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms seek medical attention immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

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