By Dr Gab General Practitioner Specialising in women’s health, with a particular focus on menopause care
When you think about menopause, the first things that probably come to mind are hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings. But did you know that there are now over 34 documented symptoms of menopause—and counting?
As a doctor, I’ve treated all the usual suspects time and time again. But even now, I still get surprised by the symptoms women present with. Some are so unexpected they leave even me guessing at first!
Hormonal changes can affect almost every system in the body, so it’s no wonder the symptoms can be so varied—and downright weird. Here are some of the more surprising symptoms that can come with menopause. It's important we talk about them, so you don’t feel alone—or like you're going crazy.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
A hot, tingling, or burning sensation in the mouth or tongue, often without any visible cause. It can feel like you’ve sipped scalding tea—when you haven’t.
Electric Shock Sensations
Short, sharp “zaps” or jolts of electricity, often in the head or limbs—sometimes occurring just before a hot flush.
Itchy Skin (Formication)
That creepy-crawly sensation—like ants under the skin. It often occurs without any visible rash and can be deeply uncomfortable.
Dry Eyes
Hormonal changes can affect tear production, leading to gritty, irritated, or even overly watery eyes.
Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Fluctuating estrogen levels can trigger or worsen ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears.
Bleeding or Sore Gums
Estrogen decline can impact gum health, leading to increased sensitivity, bleeding, or even gum disease.
Tingling in the Extremities
Pins and needles or numbness in your hands and feet—often unrelated to circulation issues.
Dizziness or Vertigo
Sudden feelings of light-headedness, spinning, or unsteadiness—sometimes mistaken for inner ear problems.
|
In this video, Dr. Gab shares some of the least talked about (but totally real) symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. The ones that leave women thinking, “Is it just me?”
✨ The more we talk about it, the less alone we feel.
What's the strangest symptom you have come across so far?💚🩷 Share in the comments below.
|
Memory Lapses & Brain Fog
Forgetting names, appointments, or walking into a room and forgetting why you’re there? You’re not alone.
New or Worsening Allergies
Hormonal shifts can influence immune response, sometimes triggering allergies that seem to come out of nowhere.
Palpitations
That fluttery, skipped-beat sensation in your chest—often during times of hormonal fluctuation.
Hair Changes
Thinning hair on your scalp… but surprise growth in places like your chin. Delightful, right?
Smell Sensitivity
Suddenly can’t stand that candle you used to love? Hormonal changes can heighten or alter your sense of smell.
Every woman’s experience of perimenopause and menopause is unique. Some women seem to get every symptom under the sun, while others glide through with only a few.
And here’s the kicker—many of these symptoms aren’t specific to menopause. They could be related to other medical or environmental issues. So before you chalk it up to hormones, it’s important to rule out other causes. For example, if you’re experiencing palpitations, it’s worth checking your heart before hanging your hat on the menopause peg.
Always speak to your doctor, share a full list of your symptoms, and be open to investigation and treatment if needed. You deserve to feel heard—and supported—through this phase of life.
