Study links menopause to fatigue, breathing problems

The researchers found that menopause was more likely to cause restrictive, rather than obstructive, breathing problems.

New Delhi: A new study has established a link between menopause and breathing problems.

As per the study, menopausal women are likely to experience a decline in ling function which can eventually lead to shortness of breath, fatigue and reduced work capacity.

The researchers found that menopause was more likely to cause restrictive, rather than obstructive, breathing problems.

Obstructive breathing problems make it difficult to exhale air from the lungs while restrictive breathing problems make it difficult to fully expand the lungs upon inhaling.

"Whether obstructive or restrictive, the decline in lung function may cause an increase in shortness of breath, reduced work capacity and fatigue," said lead author Kai Triebner from University of Bergen in Norway.

"Symptoms depend upon how much lung capacity is reduced, and a few women may actually develop respiratory failure as a result of this decline," Triebner said.

(With IANS inputs)