Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome. Unlike PMS, PMDD can be disabling and interfere with your daily life. Many women experience at least some symptoms of PMS, but only between 3 percent and 8 percent of women have PMDD, according to MedlinePlus. PMDD is typically worse in teens and younger women.
Symptoms
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder causes both emotional and physical symptoms. Physical symptoms can include weight gain, headaches, muscle or joint pain and swollen or tender breasts, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Emotional symptoms include feeling depressed or anxious, anger, irritability, difficulty concentrating, lack of energy, crying spells, a feeling of being overwhelmed and difficulty sleeping.
Timing
Symptoms of premenstrual dysmorphic disorder typically develop in the final week of the menstrual cycle, often just a few days before your period begins, MayoClinic.com reports. Many women with PMDD will also experience typical PMS symptoms--such as bloating and eating changes--when PMDD symptoms develop. Symptoms often resolve a few days after a teen starts her period.
Cause
An exact cause for PMDD is not known, although hormonal changes that occur throughout a woman's menstrual cycle are believed to play a role, according to MedlinePlus. Women who have mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and seasonal affective disorder are more likely to have PMDD. Excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol, lack of physical activity and genetic predisposition also may factor into whether a teen will develop PMDD.
Diagnosis
No exams or blood tests can be performed to diagnose a teen with PMDD. Instead, she must have at least five symptoms of the condition to be diagnosed, according to WomensHealth.gov. Doctors will often recommend that teens chart their symptoms to help to make a proper diagnosis. A symptoms chart involves listing symptoms as well as when and how severely you experience the symptoms throughout the month.
Treatment
No cure exists for PMDD. However, some women with the condition benefit from taking drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which are also used to treat depression, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Many doctors will also recommend that teens and women who have PMDD eat a healthful, well-balanced diet, exercise regularly and get an adequate amount of rest.
