How to Learn About PMDD

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is an extreme and debilitating condition linked to the menstrual cycle. Considered a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), symptoms of PMDD are typically experienced in the second half of the cycle and improve when menstruation begins, according to the Madison Institute of Medicine's Facts for Health website. Symptoms include deep sadness or despair, mood swings, irritability, headaches, acne, vertigo, diarrhea, extreme anxiety and panic attacks. There is a wealth of information available to those who wish to learn more about PMDD.

Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor and review your symptoms with her. A medical exam can help you learn more about PMDD and determine whether you have the condition. If you are diagnosed with PMDD, your doctor can offer you in-depth information and recommend treatments to help relieve your symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, treatment options may include antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), birth control pills, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies and diet and lifestyle changes.

• 2

  Read information from doctors and women who have been diagnosed with PMDD. Read the book, "The PMDD Phenomenon" by Diana L. Dell, M.D. and Carol Svec. Amazon.com says it is "the first consumer book written on this condition and authored by a nationally respected expert on the treatment of this condition." The book helps readers understand the full spectrum of therapies available and offers case studies of women who have battled PMDD. Also, read "PMDD: A Guide to Coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder," by James E. Houston, M.D. and Lani C. Fujitsubo, Ph.D. or "Taking Back the Month: A Personalized Solution for Managing PMS and Enhancing Your Health" by Diana Taylor, R.N., Ph.D. and Stacey Colino.

• 3

  Visit websites with information on PMDD from doctors, such as FamilyDoctor.org, OBGYN.net and MedlinePlus. Join a women's health forum, if you wish, such as PMDD Community. Sharing your experiences with other women who suffer from PMDD provides both education and emotional support.