Premenstral Dysphoric Disorder

[Amy]

Every month, just prior to my cycle, I experience extreme mood swings, irritability, a feeling of hopelessness and even suicidal thoughts.  Having learned to "wait" these symptoms out, within days I return to my regular emotional state.  However, This last episode frightened me more than ever.  The night my menstral period began I was awoke in the middle of the night with a feeling of terror.  I was shaking and felt unable to breath.  I felt like I was out of control and going crazy.  This anxiety attack has continued for three days.  Although I know that I am the type of person who would never do anything to hurt myself, I am very disturbed by the fact that I'm having these thoughts to begin with.  I did visit my general practitioner, however, I do not feel that he was very knowledgeable or helpful.  Therefore I was wanting to know what type of doctor I shoul see for help.  I was also wondering if there is anyone who specializes in this type of disorder - preferably in the Phoenix area

[HFHS-M.D.-HG]

Dear Amy

From the information that is provided, you may be suffering from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PDD)   or an anxiety disorder such as Panic disorder.. The most common symptoms that are experienced by women in PDD are lability of mood , irritability, anxiety, decreased interest in activity, increased fatigability, difficulty in concentrating, weight gain and changes in appetite, sleep pattern etc.. These symptoms markedly interfere with social and occupational functioning. Affected women are symptom free for at least one week during each menstrual cycle. Medications like SSRI's (antidepressants)  have been reported to be effective. Suicidal thoughts are dangerous and need to be addressed as soon as possible.

I would recommend a comprehensive evaluation by a trained psychiatrist  for adequate diagnosis and treatment.  For information regarding your local psychiatrists, consult your insurance company, or your family physician. This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not replace evaluation by a physician.

[shana]

Hello Amy,
          Please excuse me for "butting-in" but what you wrote to the doctor reminds me of me. 7 to 10 days before my cycle begins I think I go through a very bad depression this includes felling of helplessness, fatuige, insomina,and very bad crying spells. These seem to get better a few days after my cycle begins. I was  thinking of seeing my OB/GYN to see if she could give me something to take when these symptoms are the worst. Sorry again for cutting -in. If I find out anything that helps me I try to let you know.

[wes]

My wife had a similar problem, in fact, you could have described her.  She'd get very angry, then very depressed.  She also had physical symptoms, like lightheadedness, back aches, and diarhea (diarrhea). She saw her Ob/Gyn and started on Ortho Tri-Cyclen about 3 months ago, and she is doing GREAT!!!!  The pill may not be for you, but it has definitely helped my wife!!!  She no longer gets the mood swings, anger, or physical symtoms any longer, and her periods are much lighter and less painful.  Even if you cannot take the pill, I would talk to an Ob/Gyn.  There are treatments and DO NOT let anyone tell you it's "all in your head".  Hope you feel better!