04/02/2026
In your 40s & 50s & noticed heart palpitations, dizziness & that feeling of PANIC?
It's not in your head! During peri & menopause, fluctuating and declining oestrogen alters regulation of the autonomic nervous system and stress response. Oestrogen normally helps buffer sympathetic (“fight-or-flight”) activity and modulate neurotransmitters involved in emotional regulation.
When oestrogen drops, the body becomes more reactive to adrenaline, increasing heart rate, awareness, palpitations, and anxiety sensitivity. Oestrogen also affects vascular tone, blood pressure control, and respiratory drive, which can contribute to dizziness and lightheadedness.
These physical sensations activate the brain’s threat response, triggering panic, which further increases adrenaline and intensifies symptoms. The body thinks there is danger & wants to crawl into a hole!
Those of you who experience, know this well. It's not talked about enough! You are not alone, and you are not going crazy! These are valid physiological symptoms that are REAL!
Just remember, you are safe and the symptoms will pass. Ensure you reach out for help, don't do it on your own 🙏 Alison xx
Credit: Image by Unknown