What diagnosis is most likely for a woman experiencing severe symptoms in the week prior to her menstrual cycle?

The diagnosis most likely for a woman experiencing severe symptoms in the week prior to her menstrual cycle is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). This condition is characterized by severe emotional and physical symptoms that significantly interfere with daily functioning and are linked to the menstrual cycle. Symptoms of PMDD can include mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, and physical symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness, all of which typically occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve shortly after menstruation begins.

PMDD is distinguished from other conditions by the intensity of the symptoms and their impact on a woman’s quality of life. This diagnosis is typically confirmed when these symptoms are severe enough to cause major impairment and are associated with the menstrual cycle.

While conditions like Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) may also present similar premenstrual symptoms, PMDD is a more severe form and requires a specific diagnostic criterion. Hypothyroidism and generalized anxiety disorder, while they can cause mood-related symptoms, do not have a cyclic nature that correlates directly with the menstrual cycle in the way that PMDD does. Therefore, recognizing the specific pattern and severity of symptoms is key in making the diagnosis of PMDD in this scenario.