Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Around 10% of women of reproductive age suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). If you’re bothered by breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, and other bothersome symptoms right before your period, see the experts at Ione Medical in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Highly trained nurse practitioner Rebecca Fredman, CNP, AGNP-C diagnoses and treats PMDD to restore your mood and quality of life. Please request a consultation by using our online booking feature today. 

What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a serious form of PMS that can cause severe mood changes during the weeks leading up to a period. While most women experience uncomfortable physical or emotional changes leading up to menstruation, PMDD is characterized by symptoms distressing enough to have a serious impact on your work, home life, or relationships with others. 

How do I know if I have PMDD?

If you experience several of the following symptoms during the weeks or days leading up to most of your periods, you may have PMDD:

• Significant anger or irritability
• Persistent anxiety or feelings of depression
• Panic attacks
• Crying episodes or frequently shifting moods
• Fatigue and trouble focusing
• Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Feeling out of control or overwhelmed 
• Physical symptoms such as strong food cravings, painful cramps, bloating, breast tenderness or body pain

There are other medical conditions that can cause the above listed symptoms, so it is important that you meet with a qualified medical provider to determine if you have PMDD.

How is PMDD treated?

Ione Medical offers personalized PMDD treatment plans that can consist of one or more of the following:

• Lifestyle counseling
• Nutrition counseling
• Vitamin supplements
• Over-the-counter pain medicine
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Birth control pills
• Hormone therapy
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

It’s helpful to exercise regularly, eat plenty of protein and fiber-rich foods and healthy fats, manage stress with relaxation techniques, and cut back on caffeine. Vitamin B6, magnesium, and calcium supplements can also ease PMDD symptoms.

Avoid highly processed foods loaded with salt or added sugar, and decrease your intake of or eliminate alcohol. 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of PMDD, help is available at Ione Medical. We specialize in providing evidence-based interventions that can improve your quality of life. Schedule a PMDD consultation with Ione Medical by using our online booking feature today.