When women enter menopause, which commonly occurs in their early 50s but can occur at any age between 35 and 59, they typically suffer some physical or emotional symptoms. Hot flashes are the most prevalent symptom of menopause, with up to 75% of North American women experiencing them, according to The North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Still, there are plenty of other unpleasant indications to look out for.

The following are some of the most apparent signs and symptoms of menopause:

• the odor of the body
• soreness in the breasts
• The condition of having a burning mouth is known as burning mouth syndrome.
• Chills
• Dental issues and dry mouth
• Skin that is parched
• Fatigue
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• The inability to focus
• Irregular periods
• Itching
• Breast enlargement: a condition in which the fullness of the breasts gets lost
• Mood swings
• A mouth with metallic flavor to it.
• Sweats at night
• Skipped periods
• Insomnia is a phrase used to describe a lack of sleep
• Itching and dryness in the vaginal area
• Weight gain and a sluggish metabolism

Every woman’s menopause symptoms, such as missed or late periods, are unique. Before they cease menstruation, most women experience irregular periods.

While almost all women going through menopause experience hot flashes or itching, many are unaware of more serious menopause symptoms that might increase the risk of heart disease and necessitate medical treatment, such as an increase in:

• Blood pressure
• Proteins that aid in blood clotting
• Glucose intolerance is a state in which the body is unable to absorb glucose.
• LDL cholesterol (sometimes known as “bad” cholesterol)
• Total cholesterol

Menopause is interpreted as the absence of a period for 12 months, according to the Office of Women’s Health. Menopause can strike in your late 30s, 40s, or 50s, but the typical American woman is 52 years old.

Because the loss or drop of estrogen, as well as other normal age-related changes, can increase your risk of potentially significant health concerns, it’s vital to see your healthcare provider for frequent physical exams and checks after menopause. The following are examples of health issues:

• Heart and circulatory problems (heart and blood vessel)
• Osteoporosis is a disease that affects the bones (weakening of the bones)
• Sexual dysfunction is a common problem (vaginal dryness and low libido)
• Urinary incontinence (menopausal vaginal and urinary tract changes)
• gaining weight (from a slower metabolism and inactivity)

Hormone therapy (HT) is a treatment that some doctors recommend to address menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, but it is not for everyone. Prescription medications and self-care measures to manage unpleasant symptoms, such as:

• Acupuncture is an example of an alternative and complementary therapy
• Yoga and low-impact aerobics are two examples of exercise programs
• Black cohosh and other herbal preparations
• Smoking cessation and better sleep are examples of lifestyle changes
• Phytoestrogens are phytoestrogens that are found in plants (plant-derived chemicals that have estrogenic action, such as soy)
• Preparations available over the counter
• Meditation and other relaxation techniques

Symptoms of Menopause That Are Not Well-Known

Here are a few of the less well-known signs and symptoms of menopause, in addition to some of the more common ones.

1. Loss of Fullness in the Breasts

Some women find that their breasts aren’t as large as they used to be after menopause or that their bras are a little looser. According to Lila Schmidt, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist in private practice in San Diego, estrogen levels are fluctuating, but few women are concerned.

2. Insomnia

According to Dr. Schmidt, sleeplessness is a common menopause symptom. “Many women experiencing menopause have difficulties sleeping,” she continues, “since their estrogen levels are falling and their brain’s temperature control is malfunctioning.” “You could get a hot flash and then be unable to fall asleep again.” Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding devices before bed, and going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Additionally, keep your bedroom chilly and restrict your fluid intake throughout the evening.

3. Dry and Itchy Skin

Dry skin is another symptom of menopause. Your ovaries are releasing less estrogen, which is to blame. “Estrogen is necessary for flexibility,” Schmidt explains. Skin can become tight and itchy if you don’t use it, especially at night when you’re sleeping. Apply moisturizer on a daily basis to combat it. The thicker and greasier the moisturizer, the better it is for soothing dry skin during menopause.

4. A mouth With a Metallic Flavor

“This is a pretty uncommon symptom,” Schmidt adds, but some women experiencing menopause may experience pain or a burning feeling on their tongue, lips, gums, or other parts of their mouth. Some meals may taste different during or after menopause, with estrogen levels fluctuating and leaving a metallic taste on the tongue. A hormone imbalance, once again, is to blame, as it can damage your taste buds and make you more sensitive to pain.

5. Hair Thinning

You may notice that your hair thins as you approach menopause. It’s the estrogen — or lack thereof — once again. Schmidt explains, “Everything is tied to your estrogen falling.” Your scalp may also be dry as a result of your dry skin. Look for goods that are specifically made for thinning hair and use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.

6. Memory Problems

Menopause has an impact on language skills and other memory-related functions. You may have trouble recalling new knowledge or recovering what’s already in your head as your estrogen levels drop. Schmidt warns, “You might believe you’re going insane.” Insomnia, which is common during menopause, is another cause of memory problems. Schmidt claims that it is more difficult to concentrate when you are tired. Taking hormone therapy and keeping your sleep patterns in check may help you keep your mind fresh.

According to John F. Randolph, Jr., MD, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Michigan Health in Ann Arbor, some women also experience brain fog and other “executive function” issues, such as an incapability to pay attention, make decisions, solve problems, or engage in abstract thinking. According to Dr. Randolph, this was demonstrated for many participants in the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation, which looked at physical, biochemical, psychological, and social changes in middle-aged women. The good news is that the women’s abilities returned after menopause.

7. Dental Issues and Dry Mouth

Teeth and gum problems are common during menopause. Schmidt claims that as estrogen levels drop, your entire body, including your mouth, becomes drier. When your mouth is dry, bacteria can thrive, causing tooth decay and bleeding or receding gums. The solution is to keep your teeth clean and drink plenty of water.

8. Body Odor

Your hypothalamus gland is deceived into believing you’re overheated when your estrogen levels decrease, causing you to sweat excessively, as during a hot flash, which might result in an unpleasant body odor. Eat a balanced diet and adopt stress-reduction measures to avoid overheating. Other options for avoiding unpleasant odors? Wear breathable clothing, bathe more frequently, and use an antiperspirant and a stronger deodorant.

9. Brittle, Dry Nails

You may find that your nails are drier and brittler than usual as you approach menopause. Lower estrogen levels might make it tougher for your skin to maintain moisture, which can trigger new changes in your nails, according to NAMS. Your nails, like your skin, require moisture. Eating a well-balanced diet and staying hydrated can also assist. You can also try lowering stress through exercise, yoga, and meditation or replacing missing hormones with natural therapies (but check with your doctor first).

10. Dizziness or Light-headedness

Dizziness can be caused by a decline in hormone levels, despite it not being a well-known menopause symptom. Light-headedness, a hazy feeling, nausea, and spinning are just a few of the symptoms that can appear at any time. Treatment varies depending on the cause. However, it may include dietary and activity adjustments.

11. Vaginal Discomfort

While you may be aware that vaginal dryness is a symptom of menopause, Jessica Yih, MD, a sexual health specialist and urologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, points out that vaginal discomfort is also a symptom. Reduced estrogen during menopause causes the vaginal and vulval tissue to weaken and become more prone to irritation and inflammation, which can cause tearing and bleeding during intercourse and increase the risk of infection, according to Dr. Yih.