Menopause and long COVID: Is there perhaps a link?

Is there a link between menopause and long COVID? How similar are the symptoms of the two conditions? In our latest article Ms Pushpakala Maharajan, a specialist in menstrual disorders, menopause, and benign gynaecological conditions, compares the two and emphasises the importance of getting diagnosed correctly.

Is there a possible link between long COVID-19 and menopause? 

Whether there is a link between long COVID-19 and menopause is an interesting topic that is currently being investigated. What we know so far is, that long COVID is a condition that causes long-term complications following an acute illness because of viral pathologies, immunological dysfunction, or inflammatory damage.

Previously there have been some studies that have linked conditions like HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C, where there has been a viral related sex hormone dysfunction that can result in early menopause, menstrual abnormalities, and miscarriages. Most of the evidence comes from other virtual chronic illnesses that we know of, however, with long COVID, it is suspected that there may be similar pathogenesis where there is ACE2 receptor protein expression in the ovaries that results in a temporary disruption of ovary function. As a result, abnormal hormone production will result in symptoms of perimenopause and post-menopausal symptoms.

Can symptoms of menopause be confused for long COVID symptoms? Why is this? 

The symptoms of menopause and long COVID are very similar. For instance, long COVID symptoms of chronic fatigue, muscle aches, palpitations, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances are also the symptoms women experience if they are postmenopausal.

The overlap of symptoms can make it difficult for clinicians to diagnose and determine whether the symptoms are a result of long COVID or menopause. It is vital that if a woman is menopausal that she is correctly diagnosed because of the long long-term comorbidities that happen as a result of menopause. These conditions include cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, long-term dementia, and other abnormalities. Even though it can be difficult to diagnose these two conditions, it is important that a detailed history is taken and other relevant tests are performed to establish the diagnosis, to ensure appropriate treatment.

What are the signs of the onset of menopause?

Menopause is diagnosed from its symptoms as well as hormonal tests. The process of menopause takes five to seven years, and during that time, there are a lot of different symptoms that patients experience. These include hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, irritability, loss of cognitive abilities, brain fog, forgetfulness, difficulties focusing, and vaginal dryness along with many others.

To diagnose menopause, a blood test called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is done. FSH is a hormone that increases as the functionality of the ovaries starts to decline. The level of the FSH in the blood is measured and is an indicator of whether menopausal changes have begun.

When should a woman see a doctor about menopausal symptoms?

When symptoms are affecting someone’s quality of life, to the point that their day-to-day performance is impacted, it is important to see a doctor and discuss these symptoms. Establishing a diagnosis is crucial to getting the right treatment to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life.

How can women take good care of their health during and after menopause?

Menopause is a physiological change that happens in women. It shouldn’t be treated as an abnormal condition. There should be a holistic approach taken when treating menopause. This includes things like attention to diet and lifestyle changes, in addition to treatment. The treatment that is available ranges from hormone to non-hormone therapy. Hormone replacement therapy and other prescribed hormone medication are widely used. Alternative treatments and therapies can also be beneficial. Comorbidities linked with menopause, like osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems, can be prevented by lifestyle changes. This is why, in the treatment of menopause, it’s crucial to start with lifestyle changes before looking at other treatments available.

If you are interested in booking a consultation with Ms Pushpakala Maharajan, you can do so by visiting her Top Doctor’s profile today.