Unraveling the Connection Between Perimenopause and Allergy-like Symptoms: Debunking Myths and Providing Evidence-Based Insights
posted 29th November 2023
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading to menopause, is a natural and inevitable stage in a woman's life.
While it is commonly associated with well-known symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods, there's a less explored aspect that has piqued the curiosity of both women and researchers alike: can perimenopause trigger allergy-type symptoms?
In this article, we will delve into this question, debunk common misconceptions, and provide evidence-based information to offer clarity on this intriguing topic.
Understanding Perimenopause
Before we explore the potential link between perimenopause and allergy-like symptoms, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of what perimenopause is.
Perimenopause typically begins in a woman's 40s but can start as early as her mid-30s.
It is marked by hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in progesterone levels in the early stages and then decline in oestrogen levels in the later stages of perimenopause, leading to various physical and emotional changes.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
Perimenopause is known for a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, mood swings, and changes in libido.
These symptoms are primarily attributed to hormonal imbalances as the body adjusts to higher oestrogen and low progesterone levels.
Perimenopause and Allergy-like Symptoms: Separating Fact from Fiction
While some women report experiencing allergy-type symptoms during perimenopause, such as sneezing, hives, itching, migraines/headaches and nasal congestion, it's essential to clarify that perimenopause itself doesn't cause allergies.
Instead, the hormonal changes during perimenopause may exacerbate existing allergic tendencies or trigger symptoms similar to allergies.
Researchers have found a correlation between increased oestrogen (remember, it's progesterone that drops off the cliff first which could lead to oestrogen "dominance"; high oestrogen exacerbates histamine issues and could lead to allergy-like symptoms like hives) levels and increased sensitivity to allergens, which may contribute to these symptoms.
Scientific Evidence on Hormonal Changes and Allergy Sensitivity
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology explored the relationship between hormonal changes and allergic responses. The research found that oestrogen plays a significant role in modulating the immune system's response to allergens.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Misconception: Perimenopause Causes Allergies
Reality: Perimenopause itself does not cause allergies. Instead, hormonal changes may amplify existing allergic tendencies or trigger allergy-like symptoms in some women.
Misconception: Allergies are Uncommon in Menopause Transition
Reality: Allergies can occur at any age, and perimenopausal women may experience an increase in allergy symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations.
Practical Tips for Managing Allergy-like Symptoms During Perimenopause
Consult with a Registered Nutritional Therapist:
If you're experiencing allergy-type symptoms during perimenopause, consult with a health professional to rule out other potential causes and determine the most appropriate course of action.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):
In some cases, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended (especially for progesterone; if you are prescribed oestrogen as well in the early stages of perimenopause, when your oestrogen levels are already high, this will further exacerbate your allergy symptoms!) to manage perimenopausal symptoms, including those that mimic allergies.
However, the decision to pursue HRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider (perimenopause specialist), considering individual health risks and benefits.
Manage Allergies Proactively:
If you have a history of allergies, take proactive measures to manage them. This may include avoiding known allergens, working on gut health (if you are not able to efficiently eliminate excess histamine from the gut, this will aggravate allergy symptoms) using air purifiers, and seeking help from a Registered Nutritional Therapist to work on gut health, immune modulation and reversing allergy symptoms.
Conclusion
While perimenopause itself does not cause allergies, the hormonal changes during this transitional phase may contribute to allergy-like symptoms in susceptible individuals.
It's crucial to separate fact from fiction and understand that perimenopause can influence the body's response to allergens.
Consulting with a health professional and adopting proactive measures to manage and reverse allergies can greatly improve the quality of life during perimenopause.
By staying informed and seeking evidence-based solutions, women can navigate this natural phase with confidence and well-being.
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References:
Brinton, R. D. et al., "Perimenopause as a neurological
transition state", Nat. Rev. Endocrinol. 11, 393-405 (2015); published online 26 May 2015; corrected online 8 June 2015;
, F, V & V, "Progesterone for Symptomatic Perimenopause Treatment -Progesterone politics, physiology and potential for perimenopause", IN OBGYN, 2011, 3 (2): 109-120
Thurston, R. C. et al. Vasomotor symptoms and insulin
resistance in the study of women's health across the nation.
J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. 97, 3487-3494 (2012)
