Menopause and Allergic Reactions: Symptoms and Holistic Treatment Remedies

Hormonal Influence on Allergies

When oestrogen levels fluctuate, it can impact your body's response to allergens. Studies have shown that oestrogen can increase allergic reactions, while progesterone can have a suppressive effect. This means that your allergy symptoms may vary depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle or at different stages of your life. Awareness of these hormonal changes and how they affect your allergies is essential.

How Do Estrogen and Progesterone Regulate Allergic Reactions?

Reduced Estrogen Allergy Symptoms : What's the Connection?

The decline in your oestrogen levels during menopause can lead to a worsening of allergy symptoms in some women. This is because the reduced estrogen levels disrupt the balance between pro-allergic and anti-allergic hormonal influences, allowing for a more prominent allergic response.

The specific symptoms that may worsen with reduced estrogen levels include:

1. Itching: Oestrogen has antipruritic effects, which means it has properties that reduce itch sensations. With lower estrogen levels, itching can become more intense.
2. Sneezing: Oestrogen can suppress nasal inflammation, while lower levels may contribute to increased nasal congestion and sneezing.
3. Congestion: Estrogen can also have a decongestant effect, and its decline may lead to more severe congestion.

You should know that numerous factors, such as hormonal changes, genetics, environmental exposures, and overall health status, can influence allergies. Even though hormonal changes can complicate allergies, it's important to remember that the severity of your allergic reactions might differ from others. Remember that the interplay of these various factors can ultimately determine the extent to which your allergies will appear.

Common Allergic Reactions During Menopause

Here are some common allergic reactions women might experience during menopause:

Skin Rashes

If you're experiencing skin rashes, they could be a symptom of allergies triggered by medications, foods, and environmental factors. Women going through menopause may be more susceptible to skin rashes due to changes in hormone levels. You might notice these rashes appearing anywhere on your body, which can be itchy, red, and raised.

Hives

If you experience hives, you may notice raised, itchy welts on any body part. An allergic reaction to something or other factors like stress, infection, or heat can cause these. It can be uncomfortable and cause facial, lip, or tongue swelling.

Nasal Congestion

If you're experiencing nasal congestion, you may feel a stuffy or blocked sensation in your nose. This is a common symptom of a cold or the flu and allergies. If you're going through menopause, the changes in your hormone levels can make you more vulnerable to nasal congestion. Oestrogen can cause the lining of your nose to swell, which can contribute to this uncomfortable symptom.

Itchy Eye

If you experience itchy eyes, it may be due to allergies. Pollen, dust, and pet dander are common triggers. If you are going through menopause, your hormone levels may make you more likely to have itchy eyes. This is because oestrogen can reduce tear production in your tear ducts. (link - menopause and dry eyes blog)

Other Allergic Reactions

In addition to the above, you may also experience other allergic reactions during menopause, such as:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Coughing
• Wheezing

Symptoms Overlap: Menopause vs. Allergies:

Distinguishing between menopausal symptoms and allergic reactions can be challenging for you because their manifestations can overlap. You may experience fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances with both conditions. However, some differences can help you identify the source of your discomfort.

3 Basic Tips for Managing Allergies During Menopause

During menopause, you may experience heightened sensitivity to allergens. The hormonal changes that accompany menopause can intensify allergic reactions, so it's crucial to adopt effective management strategies. Here are some practical tips to alleviate allergy symptoms during menopause.

Identify and Avoid Triggers

The essential and first step in managing allergies is identifying specific triggers. This may involve keeping a symptom diary to track when and where your symptoms occur. Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mould, and certain foods. Once you know your triggers, please avoid them as much as possible. For example, if you're allergic to pollen, stay indoors on relatively high pollen count days or wear a mask when outdoors.

Maintain a Clean Living Environment

Keeping your environment clean and clutter-free is essential to reduce your exposure to allergens and alleviate allergy symptoms. Make sure to vacuum your carpets and upholstery frequently, wash your bedding and curtains regularly, and maintain low humidity to prevent mould growth.

Consider Over-the-counter Antihistamines

If you're having allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion, over-the-counter antihistamines can effectively block the effects of histamine, a chemical your body produces in response to allergens. To find the most suitable antihistamine for your needs, it's recommended to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

The treatment for menopausal aleergies at Nirva involves identifying the trigger, balancing the imbalance of dosha and including anti-allergic medications and diet specifications. Yoga can also help to overcome these allergies. Herbs like triphala, neem, tulsi, and aswagandha are widely used in treatments. 

• Dr. Israa Ismail, Ayurveda Consultant, Nirva

Conclusion: 

As you go through menopause, you may experience a variety of symptoms, including allergies. Fortunately, by learning more about the link between hormonal changes and allergic reactions, you can take proactive steps to manage your symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable and confident transition. With practical strategies and expert medical guidance, you can embrace this new phase of life with grace and ease.