Menopause and Rheumatoid Arthritis: What to Know – Healthline

Menopause and rheumatoid arthritis may share a connection related to hormones. However, experts dont fully understand or agree on the link.

Menopause occurs when a person doesnt have their period for 12 consecutive months for no other reason. It naturally occurs around the age of 50, though it can occur earlier or later based on the person.

Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that when a person goes through menopause, their RA symptoms get worse.

However, a 2020 study has shown that female reproductive hormones play no role in the development or severity of RA. They also noted that previous studies showed hormones had a protective effect, negative effect, or no effect at all.

Previous studies have shown a connection may exist between menopause and RA. The problem is that the studies havent agreed on exactly how or even if menopause has any effect on RA.

In a 2017 review of studies, researchers also noted that the effects of menopause on RA couldnt be determined. The review noted some of the discrepancies across studies including the following:

Still, a report published in 2018 indicated that menopause can cause additional or worsening symptoms in people living with RA. The study authors said that hormones may play a protective role in RA but also noted that additional research is needed to fully show or understand the connection.

Another study published in 2017 also noted that several hormone factors in women, including early onset and postmenopause onset, play a role in RA development and worsening. However, like other studies, they noted that additional research is needed to fully show and prove the connection between female hormones and RA.

You can take steps to manage the symptoms of both menopause and RA. For some people, treatments that help with menopause may also help with RA symptoms, but this isnt necessarily always the case.

Treatments for menopause often include one or more of the following:

You may find that certain supplements, such as soy, may help with menopause symptoms. You may also benefit from body and mind practices such as yoga, acupuncture, and meditation.

Some other steps you can take to manage menopause symptoms and risks can include:

Some suggestions for managing RA are similar to managing menopause. Some home-based care you can try include:

Some evidence suggests that hormone therapy may have an effect on both menopause and RA, while other evidence suggests not.

According to a 2017 review, studies have shown both positive and negative effects of hormone replacement therapy on RA symptoms. They indicate that more evidence is needed to make any conclusions regarding this treatment option and how it relates to RA.

You should talk with your doctor before making any major changes to your RA treatment routine, such as stopping or increasing the use of medication.

Also, you should talk with your doctor before adding a supplement to your diet to make sure it does not interfere with your current treatments.

You may also want to consider talking with your doctor if your RA or menopause symptoms become worse. They may be able to recommend additional therapies, make changes to current treatments, or make other recommendations.

RA and menopause may share a common connection due to the possible interaction between RA and hormones.

At this time, data isnt sufficient enough to show whether hormones and menopause have a negative effect, a protective effect, or no effect at all.

If you find your symptoms of RA getting worse during menopause, you should talk with your doctor to let them know what is going on. They may be able to suggest changes to your treatment.

You can also take steps at home, including getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, practicing good sleep hygiene, and using supplements to help improve your symptoms.

Originally posted here:
Menopause and Rheumatoid Arthritis: What to Know - Healthline