HRT and breathlessness

[lpls]

Hi, I have seen a few comments on here about HRT and breathlessness. I started Estradiol gel and progesterone 3 months ago and Vagifem reduced now to twice weekly. During this time I have experienced breathlessness on physical exertion - particularly uphill walking and swimming. I have spoken to my GP about it. My lungs sound clear with her stethoscope so she is sending me for an x-ray. Does anyone else have exertion breathlessness since starting either Vagifem or gel HRT? I am 55 years old and quite active and fit otherwise.

I wouldn't imagine that vagifem would cause much of an effect anywhere except its own specific area as it is such a small localised dose.

Is breathlessness on the side effects for gel? I use that (plus mirena for the progesterone) and no longer need the vagifem , about a two/three month cross over, but no breathlessness and I am not really that fit!

not that it is related, but I really struggled with breathlessness on betablockers for migraines! Had to pause halfway up the stairs to catch my breath.

Have you considered Covid? You can have it so mildly you'd not know, but breathlessness and on going breathlessness weeks later is known.

Thanks for your thoughts. I doubt it's the Vagifem and I'm not on any other medication.

No, unlikely to be Covid. I live in a tiny village in a very low risk area and have been isolating because I look after my elderly mother.