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Published on: 8/18/2026

What are the common causes of irritability and mood swings?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Irritability and mood swings are often linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly those occurring during menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), perimenopause, and menopause. Shifts in estrogen and progesterone levels can directly affect brain chemistry, influencing mood, energy, and emotional regulation.

However, hormones aren't the only possible cause. Stress, thyroid disorders, sleep deprivation, nutritional deficiencies, and mental health conditions like anxiety or depression can also trigger similar symptoms. Because the underlying cause shapes the right treatment path, identifying what's driving your symptoms is an important first step.

If you're experiencing persistent irritability or unexplained mood swings, don't guess—get clarity. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be going on and get personalized guidance on your next steps. It only takes a few minutes and could help you have a more informed conversation with your doctor.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Mood swings and irritability can often occur due to hormonal changes in the body. Menstruation can cause mood swings due to changes in hormone levels, which might make some people feel more irritable or emotional. Menopause is another time when hormones change a lot, and this can also lead to mood swings and irritability. Lastly, Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) can cause mood swings in the days leading up to a period.

Common Causes:

  • Menstruation: Hormone levels change during a period, which can affect mood.
  • Menopause: As the body transitions during menopause, hormonal fluctuations can cause mood changes.
  • Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): In the days before a period, some people experience mood swings due to hormonal shifts.

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe mood swings or irritability, it might be helpful to talk to a healthcare provider. You can also take a free symptom checker test at symptomchecker.ubie.com to better understand your symptoms. For mental health concerns, you can visit 988lifeline.org.

(References)

  • Ojezole MO, Eduviere AT, Adedapo EA, & Wool TK. (2022). Mood Swing during Menstruation: Confounding Factors .... Ethiopian journal of health sciences, 35950064.

  • Freeman EW, Sammel MD, Lin H, Gracia CR, & Kapoor S. (2008). Symptoms in the menopausal transition: hormone and .... Obstetrics and gynecology, 18165401.

  • Yonkers KA, O'Brien PM, & Eriksson E. (2008). Premenstrual syndrome. Lancet (London, England), 18395582.

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