Dr Amir Khan has highlighted a little-known symptom of menopause that affects many women: sudden anxiety when driving or being a passenger in a car. The ITV doctor shared the condition on Instagram after his sister experienced it, noting it is 'really common' but not often discussed.
Dr Khan explained that falling oestrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause can disrupt brain chemicals. 'Serotonin, your happy brain chemical goes down. GABA, your calming brain cushion, is taken away,' he said, leading to a heightened 'fight or flight' response to situations that previously felt safe.
This can make women feel unusually anxious behind the wheel or when others are driving, even if they were confident drivers before. Dr Khan’s sister, once a 'girl racer,' now finds herself gripping the seat and criticising her husband’s driving.
He stressed that simply normalising the experience can help. Treatments such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and breathing or grounding exercises may also ease symptoms. The NHS lists common menopause signs including hot flushes, mood swings, and brain fog, but driving anxiety is often overlooked.
Dr Khan advised women to see a GP if they suspect perimenopause or menopause, and reminded them: 'You’re not alone.'
