Most of us have learned about common symptoms of menopause such as night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness and irregular periods. But have you heard about the other symptoms some people experience? Not as much research may be done on the uncommon symptoms and they are not discussed as frequently, but they still deserve attention.
If you have a health complaint, specifically one that has changed your quality of life, it is important to talk to your doctor. Don’t assume that the health issue is from menopause. However, after talking to your doctor, don’t be surprised if you are diagnosed with symptoms of menopause or perimenopause.
Perimenopause is a transition period leading to menopause. Women experience fluctuations in hormones which creates symptoms similar to menopause. Usually, a women does not officially start menopause until she has not had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months. The symptoms, common or uncommon, may continue through menopause. Some women stop experiencing symptoms after menopause ends, but others may continue experiencing symptoms throughout life.
Below is a list of common and uncommon symptoms of menopause as listed by the website 34 Menopause Symptoms. Many women were relieved when they discovered these symptoms because they appreciated being in the know and not being seen as crazy for having such symptoms. They also liked knowing that they were not the only women experiencing the symptoms and that they did not have a worrisome disease. Their experiences are a natural part of being a woman.
10 common complaints of menopause or perimenopause:
• Hot flashes or flushes
• Night sweats
• Loss of libido
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood swings, abrupt tears and crying
• Trouble concentrating, disorientation, mental confusion
• Disturbing memory lapses
• Weight gain
• Incontinence—especially while sneezing or laughing
• Hair loss or thinning on the head, pubic area or whole body (but increased facial hair)
11 uncommon complaints of menopause or perimenopause:
• Dizziness or light-headedness, episodes of loss of balance
• Increase in allergies
• Change in fingernails such as cracking or breaking
• Fast heartbeat
• Panic disorder—feeling of dread, apprehension, doom
• Breast pain (pain or soreness in one or both breasts)
• Burning sensation on tongue or roof of mouth
• Electric shock sensation under skin or in head
• Gum problems—increased bleeding
• Itchy, crawly skin
• Tingling extremities
Resources:
34 Menopause Symptoms
http://www.34-menopause-symptoms.com/
Are Those Strange Sensations a Sign of Menopause?
Oprah.com
http://www.oprah.com/health/Surprising-Symptoms-of-Menopause
Dita Faulkner is a freelance writer and dedicated sister, friend, daughter and aunt.
Reviewed June 22, 2011
Edited by Kate Kunkel
Add a Comment2 Comments
I'm sharing this related article. Hope you and your readers find it useful. Thanks!
http://anti-aging-today.us/symptoms/signs-symptoms-perimenopause/
March 10, 2015 - 11:52pmThis Comment
There are some weird things that you wouldn't think are related to menopause, including tinnitus -- ringing of the ears!! http://www.womentowomen.com/womenshealth/tinnitus-hearing-noiseinears.aspx I had a horrible time with this and then found out there is a hormonal connection. Weird!
August 14, 2012 - 6:20amThis Comment