Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, often associated with well-known symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
However, beyond these common signs, many women experience a range of obscure and often surprising symptoms that can be confusing and even alarming. These lesser-known symptoms are not widely discussed, leaving many of us to wonder if what we are are experiencing is normal.
Here are some of the more unusual symptoms that can accompany this significant life transition, that I didn’t expect
1. Electric shock sensations
I wondered what the hell was happening, the unexplained electric shock sensations throughout my body, particularly just before a hot flash.
This bizarre symptom is believed to be caused by fluctuating estrogen levels affecting the nervous system. While not painful, these sensations can be startling and distressing.
2. Tingling or crawling skin (formication)
Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. As levels decline during menopause, women may experience formication—an eerie sensation of insects crawling on the skin.
This symptom is linked to nerve function changes and a decrease in collagen production, which affects skin elasticity and hydration.
For me it was on my legs, I seriously thought some bug was crawling around in my body, as this happened after a trip to the islands. After numerous tests, once again, nothing came up. I thought I was going insane.
3. Burning feet syndrome
This happens to me at night! It drives me nuts. One night I actually put my feet in a bucket of ice. A persistent burning sensation in the feet, known as Burning Feet Syndrome, is another unexpected menopause symptom.
This discomfort is often caused by hormonal changes affecting nerve function, blood circulation, and temperature regulation.
Some women find relief through lifestyle adjustments such as wearing breathable shoes, staying hydrated, and taking vitamin B supplements. It’s not as bad for me now, but it still happens occasionally.
4. Increased allergies and sensitivities
I am constantly saying to the hub “there is so much pollen around at the moment”. During menopause, some women develop new allergies or find that existing ones become more severe.
Estrogen helps regulate the immune system, and its decline can lead to heightened sensitivity to allergens, stronger reactions to fragrances, or an increase in food intolerances.
Additionally, histamine intolerance can become more pronounced, leading to symptoms like itching, rashes, or sinus issues.
I have to say, since being on HRT, this has decreased somewhat, but is still worse than before menopause. Yesterday at the hairdressers, my nose was running wild and I was sneezing up a storm.
5. Gum problems and metallic taste
Hormonal changes during menopause can affect oral health, leading to dry mouth, gum sensitivity, and a metallic taste in the mouth. Estrogen helps maintain healthy blood flow to the gums, and its decline can increase the risk of gum disease, receding gums, and mouth infections.
Some women also experience a burning sensation in their mouths, exacerbating discomfort. For me, it was the metallic taste in my mouth, it was horrible.
I changed my toothpaste several times, I went to the dentist, because I thought I had something wrong with a tooth (x-rays showed they were fine), and it wasn’t until a friend of mine had the same thing, and her doctor told her it can be related to menopause. Since taking HRT, this has subsided for me.
6. Memory lapses and brain fog
Cognitive changes, such as forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog, are common but often underestimated menopause symptoms. Many women worry they are experiencing early dementia, but in reality, these memory lapses are linked to fluctuating hormone levels affecting neurotransmitter function.
The good news is that these symptoms often improve after menopause as hormone levels stabilise. Where do I start! Half the time I don’t know if I’m Arthur or bloody Martha, I forget things, I forget places, and it’s embarrassing.
7. Phantom smells (olfactory hallucinations)
Some menopausal women report experiencing phantom smells—detecting odours that are not actually present. This phenomenon, known as phantosmia, may be linked to hormonal changes affecting the olfactory system.
Common phantom smells include cigarette smoke, burning rubber, or rotting food. While unsettling, this symptom is usually temporary. I went through a stage where pretty much everyone smelt. It was the strangest thing.
This happened at the beginning of menopause for me. The poor hub, I just couldn’t stand the smell of him.
8. Joint pain and stiffness
Many women are surprised to find that menopause brings an increase in joint pain and stiffness, even if they have never had issues before.
Estrogen has an anti-inflammatory effect, and its decline can lead to increased joint pain, swelling, and stiffness—symptoms often mistaken for early arthritis. Staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, and considering natural supplements like turmeric or collagen can help manage joint discomfort.
The swelling for me. My hands, my feet were like puffed up sausages. I was shocked at how stiff I was in the morning, getting out of bed. What the hell was happening to me. It seemed like it happened overnight.
9. Bladder weakness
Declining estrogen levels can lead to bladder weakness and urinary incontinence due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and reduced elasticity in the urinary tract. Well, this was one symptom I was not expecting, and nobody talked about.
I’d be on my usual walk, and all of a sudden I’d be peeing. It was that bad. This was the turning point for me. This was when I reached out to my menopause specialist, and screamed “help”.
10. Gas
During menopause, hormonal shifts can lead to digestive changes, including increased gas and bloating, as the body processes food more slowly. Well, I was and still am a walking trumpet.
When I was younger, pre perimenopause and menopause, I could never fart, ever. I was always fascinated that men seem to let rip so effortlessly. Well, I am now giving every male on earth a run for his money.
Why do these symptoms happen?
The root cause of these unusual symptoms lies in hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in estrogen and progesterone.
These hormones play critical roles in numerous bodily functions beyond reproduction, including nerve function, circulation, temperature regulation, and brain activity. As these levels drop, the body experiences a cascade of unexpected changes.
Coping strategies and relief
If you are experiencing any of these obscure menopause symptoms, you are not alone, never forget that! Here are some practical tips for managing them:
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration can help with skin, joint, and nerve health.
- Mindful diet choices: Reduce processed foods, sugar, and inflammatory triggers that can exacerbate symptoms.
- Exercise regularly: Low-impact activities such as yoga, walking, and swimming can help with joint pain, circulation, and mental clarity.
- Consider hormone therapy (HRT): Some women find relief through HRT, but it’s essential to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare professional. I know not everyone can take (or wants to) take HRT. This is just one option.
- Try natural remedies: Herbs such as black cohosh, ashwagandha, and evening primrose oil may help alleviate symptoms.
- Practice stress management: Meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques can help with anxiety, brain fog, and sleep disturbances.
- Consult a specialist: If your symptoms are severe or impacting your quality of life, seek advice from a doctor specialising in menopause and hormonal health.
Breaking the silence on menopause
One of the biggest challenges of menopause is the lack of conversation and awareness surrounding its full range of symptoms. Many of us have or still feel isolated or dismissed when we bring up our concerns. By shedding light on these lesser-known symptoms, we can help normalise the menopause experience and empower women to seek support and treatment. The more we talk, the better.
If you or someone you know is experiencing unusual symptoms, sharing information and seeking medical advice can be invaluable. Menopause may be a challenging transition, but with the right knowledge and support, it can also be an opportunity for self-care, renewal, and empowerment.