DeepSummary
The podcast episode features a presentation by Dr. Dara Abraham on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and its link with ADHD. Dr. Abraham explains the differences between PMDD, PMS, and premenstrual exacerbation, and discusses the symptoms, risk factors, and potential causes of PMDD, including hormonal fluctuations and sensitivity to changes in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
Dr. Abraham delves into the treatment options for PMDD, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac and Zoloft, hormonal contraceptives, and other medications. She also highlights the connection between PMDD and ADHD, explaining how the cyclical changes in hormones can impact the efficacy of ADHD medications and exacerbate ADHD symptoms during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.
The presentation covers the role of genetics, brain structure, and functional differences in PMDD, as well as the importance of keeping a symptom diary and advocating for oneself with medical professionals. Dr. Abraham also touches on the impact of life transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause on PMDD and ADHD symptoms.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can lead to significant emotional and physical distress, impacting daily functioning.
- PMDD is characterized by symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, and concentration difficulties, typically occurring in the luteal phase (the week or two before menstruation).
- PMDD is believed to be caused by sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations and neurotransmitter disruptions, particularly involving serotonin and dopamine.
- There is a link between PMDD and ADHD, with hormonal changes affecting the efficacy of ADHD medications and exacerbating ADHD symptoms during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.
- Treatment options for PMDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), hormonal contraceptives, and other medications, as well as lifestyle changes and nutritional supplements.
- Keeping a symptom diary and advocating for oneself with healthcare providers is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of PMDD, especially for women with ADHD.
- Life transitions, such as pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause, can also impact PMDD and ADHD symptoms due to hormonal changes.
- It is essential to seek a second opinion if dissatisfied with the current healthcare provider's approach to managing PMDD and ADHD.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “There is criteria now. So I think that there was some fear that we were over diagnosing. But I think like many disorders and just like ADHD, yes, there are times when it's over diagnosed, but as a whole, statistically, and the research has shown by no means is it truly over diagnosed. And I think it's still under diagnosed.“ by Speaker A
- “And so really, what I want to also mention here, with the potential causes of PM's as well as PMDD, is that what we also know is that women are not only not just sensitive to the hormonal fluctuation, but also to the neurotransmitter disruptions in the brain. So when women actually have different levels of something called serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine, just think of those as the chemicals in the brain, and then they interact with estrogen, progesterone.“ by Speaker A
- “And really, that's because that initial boost of serotonin, what it does, it actually works analogous to that natural byproduct of progesterone. At that point, you can notice a change pretty quickly because you're increasing serotonin and then you're actually getting that analog of the byproduct of progesterone, and you feel better pretty quickly.“ by Speaker A
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Episode Information
ADHD Experts Podcast
ADDitude
6/11/24
Many women with ADHD experience what feels like premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — on steroids. Symptoms include severe sadness, irritability, fatigue, and physical discomfort. Dara Abraham, D.O., delves into the intricate interplay between PMDD and ADHD.
PMDD and ADHD: More Resources
- Download: Menstrual Cycle Tracking Log
- Self-Test: Do You Have PMDD?
- Read: PMDD, Autism, and ADHD — The Hushed Comorbidity
- Get: How Hormones, Symptoms & Late Diagnoses Impact Females
Access the video and slides for podcast episode #506 here: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/pmdd-symptoms-women-adhd-link/
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