Symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

  • Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • Feelings of tension or anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Mood swings and tearfulness
  • Persistent irritability or anger
  • Disinterest in daily activities and relationships


  • Trouble concentrating
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Food cravings or binge eating
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Feeling out of control
  • Physical symptoms (bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, muscle pain)


There are many steps you can take to improve PMDD symptoms. Many involve simple lifestyle adjustments.



  • Exercise - Regular aerobic exercise can reduce the symptoms of PMDD.
  • Dietary modifications - Changes to your diet may help reduce symptoms. Cutting back on salt, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol is recommended. Eating plenty of complex carbohydrates is also recommended.
  • Nutritional supplements - Vitamin B-6, calcium, magnesium, Vitamin E, and tryptophan have all been shown to benefit women suffering from PMDD.
  • Herbal remedies - Evening primrose oil and chaste tree berry are herbal supplements that have both been studied and found to be effective in the treatment of PMDD.
  • Stress reduction - Relaxation techniques and other strategies to reduce stress may help with PMDD symptoms. Yoga and meditation are particularly effective.