The Signs and Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Approximately three to eight percent of girls and women experience PMDD during the week before menstruation begins. According to the DSM-IV, at least five of the following symptoms must be present during the premenstrual period for a diagnosis of PMDD:

• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts
• Severe stress, tension, anxiety or panic attacks
• Extreme irritability or anger that affects others
• Mood swings that include crying
• Loss of interest in normal activities and relationships
• Problems with concentration or ability to focus on tasks
• Severe fatigue, or loss of normal energy level
• Food cravings or bingeing

Note: The above symptoms must occur in addition to the required diagnostic criteria for PMS for a diagnosis of PMDD to occur.

_Sources:

The American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association 1994.

Robert F Casper, MD. Patient information: Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, UpToDate [online]. Accessed on October, 24, 2006.