How to Recognize the Signs of PMDD

PMDD, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder, is a severe and debilitating form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMDD affects between 2 and 10 percent of women who menstruate, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Some women who suffer from this condition may not be able to differentiate it from PMS and might not receive proper treatment as a result. This is why all women who menstruate should have an understanding of the signs of PMDD.

Things You'll Need

• Journal
• Health care provider

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Instructions

• 1

  Consider if symptoms are debilitating. The main thing that differentiates PMDD from PMS is that it causes women to have a hard time coping with their daily life routines. It is likely that you are suffering from more than PMS if symptoms are so severe that you find yourself unable to keep up with life's daily activities.

• 2

  Pay attention to differences in mood. Severe depression is one of the main signs of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Random bouts of crying, feelings of sadness and loneliness are all common during this time. Some women may also notice that they feel angry, irritable or anxious. According to the American Pregnancy Association, women who suffer from PMDD may feel as though they are "keyed up" or "on edge."

• 3

  Notice changes in sleeping or eating patterns. Women who suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder may find themselves sleeping more or less frequently than usual. Many women with PMDD find themselves suffering from severe fatigue and find it difficult to maintain energy. Changes in appetite also may occur. Women with this condition are likely to notice severe food cravings.

• 4

  Note physical changes. The physical changes that affect women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder are similar to what women with PMS experience, but women with PMDD may experience them more severely than others. These changes include muscle pain, bloating, weight gain, tender or swollen breasts and headaches.

• 5

  Determine when symptoms begin and end. Generally, women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder begin to notice symptoms during the last week of their cycle. The symptoms will generally become milder or go away a few days after the period has begun.

• 6

  Record symptoms in a journal. Women who suspect that they may have PMDD should track the symptoms that they experience, when they begin and when they end. Giving this journal to your doctor can help him make a better diagnosis.