Flu Season & Menopause: 8 Things to Know - Emsee

Navigating menopause can be challenging enough on its own, but when flu season arrives, it brings an additional layer of complexity. Understanding how these two conditions interact and learning effective management strategies can help you stay healthy and comfortable. Here’s what healthcare providers want you to know about managing flu during menopause. 

The Menopause-Immune System Connection 

Recent research shows that hormonal changes during menopause can affect your immune system’s function. According to a study in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, declining oestrogen levels can impact immune response, potentially making menopausal women more susceptible to viral infections like the flu【Gameiro et al., 2020】. 

8 Essential Insights for Managing Flu During Menopause 

1. Understanding Your Changed Immune Response 

During menopause, your body undergoes significant hormonal shifts that can affect how it responds to infections. Research published in Immunity & Ageing demonstrates that women in perimenopause and beyond may experience: 

• Slower immune response to viral infections 

• Increased inflammation throughout the body 

• Greater susceptibility to respiratory infections 

• Longer recovery times from illness 

2. Vaccination: Your First Line of Defence 

For women over 45, getting the annual flu vaccine becomes even more crucial. Studies show that menopausal women who receive the flu vaccine experience: 

• Reduced risk of severe flu complications 

• Better immune response to viral infections 

• Lower likelihood of hospitalisation 

• Shorter duration of symptoms if infected 

3. Hot Flush or Fever? Know the Difference 

One of the most challenging aspects of experiencing flu during menopause is distinguishing between hot flushes and fever. Here’s how to tell them apart: 

Hot Flushes: 

• Usually last 2-10 minutes 

• Often accompanied by sweating and rapid heartbeat 

• Temperature returns to normal quickly 

• Typically affect upper body and face 

Fever: 

• Sustained elevated temperature 

• Accompanied by body aches and fatigue 

• Affects the entire body 

• May persist for several days 

4. Sleep Management Strategies 

When dealing with both flu symptoms and menopausal night sweats, quality sleep can seem impossible. Research in the Journal of Sleep Research suggests these effective strategies【Baker et al., 2018】: 

• Maintain a cool bedroom temperature (18-20°C) 

• Use layered bedding for easy temperature adjustment 

• Keep a cold pack near your pillow 

• Consider moisture-wicking sleepwear 

5. Hydration: More Critical Than Ever 

Dehydration risks increase during menopause and flu illness. A study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine recommends【Stachenfeld, 2014】: 

• Drinking 2.5-3 litres of water daily 

• Increasing fluid intake with fever or night sweats 

• Monitoring urine colour for hydration status 

• Including electrolyte-rich beverages in your daily routine 

6. Supplement Support 

Research indicates specific supplements can support immune function during menopause: 

• Vitamin D3: 1000-2000 IU daily 

• Vitamin C: 500-1000mg daily during illness 

• Zinc: 15-30mg daily 

• Elderberry: Following product recommendations 

7. Exercise Considerations 

While staying active is important, adjusting your exercise routine when fighting the flu is crucial. Guidelines suggest: 

• Postponing intense workouts until fever subsides 

• Gentle movement like stretching when feeling better 

• Gradual return to regular exercise 

• Listening to your body’s needs 

8. When to Seek Medical Help 

Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention: 

• Fever above 39°C lasting more than 24 hours 

• Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing 

• Persistent dizziness or confusion 

• Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement 

Supporting Your Health Journey 

While managing flu during menopause presents unique challenges, implementing these strategies can help you navigate this complex intersection of health conditions. Remember that every woman’s experience is different, and what works best for you may require some personalisation. 

Conclusion 

Understanding the unique challenges of managing flu during menopause is crucial for maintaining your wellbeing during this significant life transition. By staying informed about your changing immune system, prioritising preventive measures, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can better navigate flu season while managing menopausal symptoms.  

How Emsee Can Help 

Managing both flu symptoms and menopause requires a personalised approach—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. 

Book a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers today, with the first consultation with a doctor being gap free bulk-billable which means no out of pocket cost to you. To do this, call 1300 415 414 or fill out our online contact form.   

Alternatively, answer a few questions about your health and lifestyle to get a free assessment report on your situation and discover if Emsee is the perfect match for you.  

References 

1. Gameiro, C. M., Romão, F., & Castelo-Branco, C. (2020). “Menopause and aging: changes in the immune system—a review.” Maturitas, 86, 139-145. 

2. Baker, F. C., et al. (2018). “Sleep problems during the menopausal transition: prevalence, impact, and management challenges.” Nature and Science of Sleep, 10, 73-95. 

3. Stachenfeld, N. S. (2014). “Hormonal changes during menopause and the impact on fluid regulation.” Reproductive Sciences, 21(5), 555-561. 

4. Whitacre, C. C., et al. (2001). “A gender gap in autoimmunity: Sex differences in disease incidence and immune responses.” Science, 283, 1277-1278. 

5. McElhaney, J. E., et al. (2020). “The immune response to influenza in older humans: beyond immune senescence.” Immunity & Ageing, 17, 10. 

6. Lobo, R. A., et al. (2014). “Prevention of diseases after menopause.” Climacteric, 17(5), 540-556. 

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider for any specific symptoms or issues you might be experiencing.