Skip to main content

Asthma and Menstrual Period


Medically reviewed by

Question

My asthma seems to get worse during my menstrual period? Is this possible?

Answer

Not only is increasing asthma possible during the menstrual period, it's common. When women with asthma are asked about this complaint, 20-45 percent of them state that they have noticed worsening asthma during menstrual cycles.

You should discuss this problem with your primary care physician or asthma specialist. A medication adjustment in the later half of your cycle may help ameliorate this problem.

Meet our care team

Steven Machtinger, M.D.
Allergy and ImmunologyPediatric Allergy and Immunology

Related questions

View all questions
  • I struggle with seasonal allergies and take Claritin, plus use a neti pot. This season, I have also had shortness of breath and light coughing, but no wheezing. It's hard to do my usual workouts. Is there some kind of inhaler I can use?

  • My asthma is intermittent and mild. Is the Proventil inhaler the best treatment? Are there any side effects? Is there a more natural method to manage asthma? And are there effective dust and other airborne allergen removers?

  • Living in smoggy air in Northern California has certainly made my asthma worse. Could it also be doing any damage to my heart?

  • Are some allergies and asthma inherited? My sister and I seem to be allergic to the same foods and pollens. Also do children ever outgrow these conditions?

  • I have had asthma since childhood. As an adult, I find that when I'm really stressed or anxious, my asthma gets worse. Is there a correlation? Also how can I tell the difference between an asthma attack and an anxiety attack?

You're leaving our site

The website you have selected is an external one located on another server. This website may contain links to third party sites. These links are provided for convenience purposes and are not under the control of Sutter Health. Do you wish to continue?