Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, or PMDD, is a distinct medical condition. It is characterized by intense mood symptoms, such as irritability, sudden mood changes, tension and sadness. PMDD also includes physical symptoms, such as bloating and breast tenderness. Symptoms are limited to the week or two before a woman's period and clearly interfere with day-to-day activities and relationships. PMDD won't go away by itself. And left untreated, it can worsen with age. By understanding what may cause PMDD and what can be done to relieve its symptoms, you can feel more like the woman you are.

What causes PMDD?

While PMDD is not fully understood, many doctors believe it is caused by an imbalance of a chemical in the body called serotonin. The normal cyclical changes in female hormones may interact with these chemicals including serotonin, and may result in the mood and physical symptoms of PMDD. And although you may seem like you only suffer a few days a month, over time these days can add up to almost one quarter of your childbearing years. The good news is your doctor can now treat PMDD symptoms with a new treatment called Sarafem.