What Is the Connection Between Hormones & Asthma?

Hormonal fluctuations can directly influence asthma in women. According to nationaljewish.org, hormones may be part of the reason that more women than men have asthma and are hospitalized for it. However, measures can be taken to help control your asthma, even if it worsens during hormonal changes.

Hormones

• Women naturally have the hormones estrogen and progesterone in their bodies. Levels change throughout life. According to aphroditewomenshealth.com, these hormones can help keep asthma symptoms at bay by reducing lung inflammation.

Menstruation

• Before and during menstruation, your estrogen and progesterone levels drop. Nationaljewish.org reports that up to 40 percent of asthmatic women have a flareup of symptoms during this time.

Pregnancy

• During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone levels increase. This is why you may experience an improvement in your asthma symptoms while pregnant.

Menopause

• During menopause, you may take estrogen replacements. However, according to Harvard University, estrogen replacement hormones may actually increase your risk of asthma.

Prevention/Solution

• No matter what stage of life, you should work with your doctor to help keep asthma symptoms under control. For instance, let your physician know if you experience any flareups during your monthly cycles.