vida notes | what is PMDD? ;)
premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe premenstrual disorder that causes significant emotional, cognitive, behavioral and physical symptoms during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle—the time between ovulation and your period.
PMDD is not a “hormonal imbalance.” current evidence suggests that people with PMDD have an increased sensitivity to the normal hormonal changes that happen throughout the menstrual cycle.
symptoms typically emerge during the luteal phase after ovulation, become most intense in the days before your period, and improve within the first few days after menstruation begins.
what are the symptoms of PMDD?
PMDD can look different for everyone. symptoms may include:
- severe irritability or anger
- mood swings or increased emotional sensitivity
- depression, hopelessness or feelings of worthlessness
- anxiety, tension or feeling “on edge”
- feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- difficulty concentrating or brain fog
- fatigue or low energy
- loss of interest in usual activities
- changes in appetite or food cravings
- sleeping more or less than usual
- breast tenderness
- bloating
- headaches
- joint or muscle pain
for PMDD, these symptoms are severe enough to interfere with everyday life, including relationships, work, school or other daily activities.
the key is not only what symptoms you experience, but when they happen.
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respira.
this too shall pass.
un día a la vez.
with love,
Daniela Caballero Varona, MD
educational content only. this information is not intended to diagnose or treat a medical condition or replace individualized medical care.