Menopause and Allergy
What do 33% of women have in common? It is estimated that around a third of women in the UK are currently peri or menopausal. Menopause is not associated with pathology (disease); it is part of the natural aging process in women resulting in declining numbers of follicles and oestrogen production from the ovaries.
So, what has menopause got to do with allergy? The experience is different for every woman however there are more than 30 different symptoms attributed to menopause.
One of the many symptoms of menopause can be an effect on our immune system. The connection between the hormonal system and the immune system are closely linked. When the immune system becomes stressed, its reaction is to release histamine, which in turn can cause an allergic reaction. Itchy skin and symptoms of hayfever may occur for the first time in a woman’s life when menopause occurs.
Difficulty sleeping is a common symptom of menopause; this lack of sleep can have a real influence on how we feel. Lack of sleep can impact our immune system and stress levels which in turn when our immune system comes under stress can contribute to an increase in allergic reactions.
As a change in allergic response is not one of the more common symptoms associated with menopause sometimes it can get overlooked. If you or a family member are perimenopausal or menopausal and notice an increase in allergic reactions such as sneezing, blocked runny nose and or itchy skin, keep a look out for what could be the trigger.
Tips for Allergy Relief During Menopause
As we are all individuals, every woman’s menopause is different. You may not experience any of these symptoms other than menstrual cycle changes. If you do though, these tips for managing allergies during the menopause may be helpful:
- Eating well and exercising can help with menopause symptoms.
- Sleep – try to reduce caffeine intake especially before bedtime.
- Sleep – lightweight pyjamas can be helpful in getting off to sleep.
- Try to avoid allergic triggers, tricky we know!
- Use a moisturiser on skin to ease itchiness.
- Antihistamines can ease allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, blocked or runny nose and itchy skin hives.
GB-ZI-2500007
Zirtek Allergy film-coated Tablets (6+), Zirtek Allergy Relief film-coated Tablets (6+), Zirtek Allergy Relief for Children oral solution (6+) and Zirtek Allergy Solution oral solution (2+) contain cetirizine dihydrochloride. Always read the leaflet.
Zirtek is for the relief from itchy watery eyes, blocked or runny nose and sneezing caused by hayfever and winter allergens such as dust, pets and moulds as well as allergic itchy skin rashes (hives).
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency, or for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your condition.
Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.
Adverse events should also be reported to UCB Pharma Ltd at ucbcares.uk@ucb.com or 0800 2793177
References are available upon request.
UCB Pharma Ltd
208 Bath Road
Slough, Berkshire, SL1 3WE
Email: ucbcares.uk@ucb.com
Tel: 01753 777 100
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