PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a very severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms occur in the luteal phase (the second half) of the menstrual cycle, and can include:

• Anxiety

• Panic attacks

• Irritability

• Depression

• Suicidal thoughts

• Anger

• Difficulty concentrating

• Headaches

• Insomnia

• Food cravings/binge eating

• Fatigue and low energy

Conventionally, the pill or anti-depressants may be prescribed for PMDD. The issue with this is that it is not fixing the underlying problem: a hormone imbalance. Generally there can be low levels of progesterone, alongside excessive amounts of oestrogen which increases the breakdown of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA, which causes the psychological symptoms associated with PMDD.

Histamine can also drive PMDD. Histamine is an immune signalling protein, which is released by mast cells – a type of immune cell. Histamine is also a neurotransmitter, and too much of it can cause anxiety and insomnia. Histamine creates oestrogen, which creates more histamine, which creates more oestrogen, and so a vicious cycle that impacts oestrogen-driven conditions such as PMDD, PMS, endometriosis and adenomyosis can occur. Reducing histamine can therefore be a key objective when treating PMDD and other hormonal conditions.

PMDD is serious and complex, though there is much that can be done to assist both the symptoms and the underlying cause. The first step is to undertake comprehensive hormone testing and then create an individualised treatment plan based on your specific hormone levels, alongside natural treatment to stabilise your GABA, dopamine and serotonin levels. Natural, effective solutions are available.