Those terrible mood swings right before your period is called PMDD, and it's worse than PMS

Each month, we women experience a menstrual cycle characterised by the shedding of the uterine lining, accompanied by hormonal fluctuations. But sometimes, these hormonal fluctuations can start a little too early and can be really bad, so much so that it can lead to depression and anxiety. The disorder is called PMDD: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. 

What

PMDD is a scarier ghost that precedes the scary ghost - your periods. But what is it?

Dr Mayur Dass, a gynaecologist at Cloudnine Hospital, New Delhi, explains that PMDD or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects some individuals during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. The symptoms start one week prior to menstruation and subsides a few days after the periods start. 

The luteal phase is the second half of the menstrual cycle that occurs after ovulation and before menstruation.

PMDD can take various forms that go beyond the usual discomfort associated with PMS. Now, if you don't know what PMS or Premenstrual Syndrome is, here's a brief.

It refers to a combination of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that many menstruating individuals experience in the days or weeks leading up to their period. PMS is a common occurrence, and the symptoms can vary widely in terms of type and severity from person to person.

Now, PMDD is basically the big brother of PMS. Everything is 2X. 

Dr Mayur Dass explains that there are a lot of symptoms of PMDD: 

1. Severe mood changes: PMDD can lead to intense mood swings, including profound irritability, anger, and even rage. One may feel emotionally overwhelmed and struggle to regulate their emotions during this time.

2. Depression: PMDD can cause deep feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. Dr Dass says, "I have seen my clients experiencing depressive episodes that significantly disrupt their daily functioning."

3. Anxiety: Extreme anxiety and heightened worry are common symptoms of PMDD. Individuals may experience racing thoughts, excessive concern, and even panic attacks.

4. Physical symptoms: Along with emotional distress, PMDD can lead to severe physical symptoms. These may include extreme fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, and significant joint and muscle pain.

5. Cognitive impairment: Some individuals with PMDD experience difficulties with cognitive function, such as trouble concentrating, memory lapses, insomnia and decision-making challenges.

6. Suicidal thoughts: In severe cases, PMDD can lead to suicidal thoughts. The emotional distress and intensity of the symptoms can become overwhelming for some individuals.

According to experts, these extreme symptoms of PMDD can interfere with personal relationships, work, and daily activities. The unpredictability and intensity of symptoms can strain interactions with loved ones and hinder productivity.

'Becoming more common'

Dr Mayur Dass says that the cause of this is unknown, but it could be genetic. It is caused due to 'abnormal' reaction to normal hormonal changes. But it is believed to be a complex interplay of hormonal, genetic, and neurotransmitter-related factors.

Dr Parul Singhal, a gynaecologist from Noida, explains that PMDD is becoming increasingly common nowadays, with "today's lifestyle and unhealthy food patterns". 

However, both experts agree that there is very little to no proper study done on the disorder.  

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'No cure'

By now, it is known that there's no proper cure for the disorder. However, Dr Parul Singhal has a few suggestions on to how to 'tackle it', "One can tackle the symptoms once you know that you're the kind of person who suffers from PMDD."

All these symptoms usually subside once your period begins. 

But if the symptoms are too severe, one needs to go see an expert, so that they can get specific medication related to their symptoms.

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