Asthma, Allergy Symptoms Can Be Cyclical In Women

If your asthma or allergic rhinitis symptoms are worse during certain times of the month or during pregnancy, you are not alone. Research indicates that women’s menstrual cycles can influence these symptoms. 
Breathing Cycles
Asthma symptoms can worsen a few days before menstruation, and hormones can play a significant role. Progesterone and/or estrogen can affect the airways or the cells of the immune system, making an asthma attack more likely.
According to one study, 57 percent of women with asthma experience worsening of symptoms and increased medication use and 14 percent had a significant decrease in lung function before their menstruation.
During the first two weeks of menstruation, estrogen levels increase and signal the formation of new blood vessels in the uterus and possibly in the lungs. As estrogen levels decrease dramatically before menstruation, the resultant change in blood flow in the lungs could make it more difficult for the lungs to take in oxygen.
During days 22-28 of the menstrual cycle, the hormones progesterone and estrogen decrease, reaching their lowest levels at day 28. 
“However, hormones by themselves do not explain the entire pattern,
according to Richard W Honsinger, MD. “The use of oral contraceptives does not prevent worsening symptoms, and use of hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women actually increases the risk of developing adult onset asthma.”
Research regarding a correlation between menstrual cycles, pregnancy and asthma symptoms continues. Indeed, some females have worsening of their asthma during pregnancy. In the meantime, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends that you keep a diary of asthma symptoms in relation to your menstrual period and pregnancy. 
“Also, talk to your doctor about increasing preventative medication before menstruation, or consult with your physician about how best to manage asthma during pregnancy. The most important therapeutic decisions during pregnancy involve maintaining appropriate oxygen levels for the fetus, and this revolves around controlling the mother’s asthma,” adds Thomas, B. Casale, MD, AAAAI Executive Vice President.

Symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, pain or tightness in the chest. Asthma attacks can vary from mild to life threatening.
The Nose Knows
Allergic rhinitis is the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose. Symptoms include sneezing, itchy nose and roof of the mouth, throat, eyes and ears, runny nose, congestion and watery eyes. 
According to a Practice Parameter in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, there is an association of nasal congestion with ovulation and the rise of estrogen during the menstrual cycle in some women. 
Pregnancy rhinitis occurs without an infection, allergic or medication-related cause. The condition starts before the last six weeks of
pregnancy (corresponding to 34 weeks gestation), continues until
delivery and clears up within two weeks after delivery.
Studies have shown that symptoms of allergic rhinitis increased in one-third of pregnant patients because of increased sinus congestion from the blood vessels in the nose expanding and increased blood volume.
As with all medications during pregnancy, consult with your doctor prior to taking or increasing dosages of drugs used to control
rhinitis symptoms.