Lung function tends to decline during menopause, and many women may notice increased shortness of breath. Both lung capacity and the ability to force air out of the lungs are reduced during this stage. Studies show that this change isn't only due to natural aging but also linked to decreased hormone levels.
The decline in lung function can be quite significant in some women, comparable to the damage caused by smoking 20 cigarettes a day for 10 years. As a result, symptoms like shortness of breath, reduced physical endurance, and fatigue may become more noticeable.
Hormonal changes during menopause may play a role in this decline because a decrease in hormones can lead to systemic inflammation and osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can compress the vertebrae in the chest, limiting lung expansion and reducing air intake. HRT is an effective option for preventing both osteoporosis and inflammation in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.