Menopause and Long Covid

Exploring the link between sex hormones and long Covid, Lisa Pham's journey sheds light on a topic of growing interest. With symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, and more, she discovered an overlap between her long Covid experience and early signs of menopause, sparking questions about the role hormones play in our body's response to prolonged illness.

The Role of Reproductive Hormones

Dr. Louise Newson, a menopause specialist, highlights the trio of reproductive hormones — estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone — as crucial in combating inflammation and impacting immune system functionality. A drop in these hormones can weaken bodily defenses, potentially affecting long Covid recovery. Newson suggests that some long Covid cases might actually be misdiagnoses or occur concurrently with perimenopause or menopause, advocating for hormone replacement therapy in certain cases.

Beyond Estrogen and Progesterone: The Role of Testosterone

Testosterone, often associated exclusively with males, is gaining recognition for its significance in women's health, particularly for older women. Newson's study points to its benefits in improving sleep, concentration, and mood. She urges that women diagnosed with long Covid should be evaluated for hormonal changes, regardless of age.

Personal Management of Long Covid

Pham's personal regimen against long Covid includes dietary changes, antihistamines, massages, and careful exercise. However, a recent flare-up, potentially triggered by a busy schedule and a break from her contraceptive pill, reminds us of the unpredictability and ongoing nature of long Covid.

The Intersection of Hormones and Health

Exploring the link between sex hormones and long Covid, Lisa Pham's journey sheds light on a topic of growing interest. With symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, muscle pain, and more, she discovered an overlap between her long Covid experience and early signs of menopause, sparking questions about the role hormones play in our body's response to prolonged illness.

The Role of Reproductive Hormones

Dr. Louise Newson, a menopause specialist, highlights the trio of reproductive hormones — estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone — as crucial in combating inflammation and impacting immune system functionality. A drop in these hormones can weaken bodily defenses, potentially affecting long Covid recovery. Newson suggests that some long Covid cases might actually be misdiagnoses or occur concurrently with perimenopause or menopause, advocating for hormone replacement therapy in certain cases.

Beyond Estrogen and Progesterone: The Role of Testosterone

Testosterone, often associated exclusively with males, is gaining recognition for its significance in women's health, particularly for older women. Newson's study points to its benefits in improving sleep, concentration, and mood. She urges that women diagnosed with long Covid should be evaluated for hormonal changes, regardless of age.

Personal Management of Long Covid

Pham's personal regimen against long Covid includes dietary changes, antihistamines, massages, and careful exercise. However, a recent flare-up, potentially triggered by a busy schedule and a break from her contraceptive pill, reminds us of the unpredictability and ongoing nature of long Covid.