PMS symptoms aren’t exactly a joyride for many, but if they’re disrupting your life and interfering with your plans, that’s reason enough to call your doctor. While a medical professional is the only person who can give you a sure and confirmed diagnosis, severe PMS symptoms could be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
How Is PMDD Diagnosed?
If you’re unfamiliar with PMDD, the Cleveland Clinic defines it as a “more serious form” of PMS. It’s also worth noting that the cause of PMDD isn’t yet fully understood, but differing responses in hormone fluctuations are one possible culprit.
While PMDD can be associated with many uncomfortable and common period-related symptoms (like headaches, cramps, and bloating), the healthcare organization notes that the condition usually presents itself with anxiety, depression, or extreme irritability.
As far as PMDD is typically diagnosed, Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that there aren’t many diagnostic tests and screenings for this condition. In other words, when seeking answers for what’s causing your irritability, there isn’t one stand-alone PMDD test that your doctor can give you. Before a conclusion is drawn, the organization also notes, a certain amount of specific symptoms must be present over the course of a year and in most periods.
