Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Treatment

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a condition associated with severe emotional and physical problems occurring exclusively during the 2 weeks preceding the menstrual cycle. It is similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but differs from it. PMDD can affect your relationships and work ability. The most common these symptoms are (10 to 14 days before menstrual period and they improve when your period starts):

• Sadness and crying
• Feeling nervous, irritable and anxious
• Fatigue
• Strong cravings for certain foods
• Loss of concentration
• Headaches, joint or muscle pain and swelling or bloating
• Trouble sleeping

While physical symptoms are identical for PMS and PMDD, in PMDD the focus is on the mood rather than the physical symptoms.

PMDD: Treatment For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Lifestyle changes may ameliorate some of the effects of PMDD, and certain SSRIs provide relief as well. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three medications for the treatment of PMDD: Fluoxetine (also known as Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft) and Paroxetine (Paxil).

The Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder treatment includes nonpharmacological treatment too: aerobic exercise, consumption of complex carbohydrates and frequent meals, relaxation training, light therapy, sleep deprivation, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.