Are you a woman over 35 experiencing some unexpected changes in your body? You might be dealing with the often-misunderstood and unusual symptoms of menopause. The decline of sex hormones during peri- to postmenopause can lead to a range of unusual symptoms that can be baffling and frustrating. These symptoms may even mimic withdrawal-like experiences, leading to misdiagnoses and additional healthcare expenses as you seek answers.

In this blog, we’ll uncover 12 surprising symptoms of menopause that might be off your radar. For a more detailed exploration of each symptom, check out my YouTube video linked below!

1. Brain Fog

Feeling like your mind is in a haze? Menopause can amplify this sensation, making it hard to focus or remember things. This mental fog can be a frustrating daily hurdle.

2. Heart Flutters

Experiencing unexpected palpitations? These heart flutters can feel alarming, but they are a common menopause symptom related to hormonal shifts.

3. High Cholesterol

Menopause can disrupt your cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease. If you have a family history of high cholesterol, be particularly vigilant. I share my journey of lowering my cholesterol naturally in my YouTube video on the topic.

4. Weird Nerve Sensations

These sensations can include crawling, tingling, or pins and needles feelings in your skin. This bizarre symptom can be unsettling but is often linked to estrogen decline. I found relief with compounded estradiol cream after experiencing severe tingling in my foot.

5. Frozen Shoulder

This condition can severely limit your shoulder's range of motion, making daily activities painful. Physical therapy helped me, but recognizing its connection to menopause was key to managing it effectively.

6. Anxiety

Heightened anxiety is a common but often overlooked menopause symptom. Hormonal fluctuations can make you feel on edge. Practices like mindfulness and deep breathing can help manage these feelings.

7. Tinnitus

Experiencing random ringing or buzzing in your ears? This annoying symptom can be linked to the hormonal changes of menopause. I’ve had this sporadically, but it’s always unexpected.

8. Joint Pain

Aching, creaky joints can also be a sign of menopause. This symptom can make you feel much older than you are, but hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been shown to alleviate joint pain for many.

9. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Menopause can increase susceptibility to UTIs, which can seem to appear out of nowhere. Proper hydration and hygiene can help reduce this risk.

10. Vaginal Atrophy and Itching

Dryness, discomfort, and itching in the vaginal area are common but often distressing symptoms. Vaginal estradiol creams and appropriate lubricants can provide much-needed relief.

11. Jaw Pain

Surprisingly, menopause can also cause jaw pain, including issues like teeth grinding or clenching. Stress relief techniques and mouthguards can help manage this discomfort.

12. Loss of Muscle

As we age and transition through menopause, muscle mass naturally declines. Studies indicate a potential 10% loss of muscle mass during perimenopause. Maintaining a protein-rich diet and regular strength training can help counteract this decline.

Learn More in My YouTube Video

For a deeper dive into these symptoms and practical tips for managing them, check out the full YouTube video where I discuss each one in detail. You’ll find additional resources and personal anecdotes that might just resonate with your experience.

If you’re new to these terms, here’s a brief overview:

• Perimenopause can start as early as age 35 and last up to 10 years. You may still ovulate and have menstrual cycles, though they may become irregular.

• Menopause is the one day in which you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

• Postmenopause is the phase following menopause and lasts for the remainder of your life.

Stay informed, stay empowered, and don’t hesitate to seek help if these symptoms are affecting your quality of life.

Let's get FIRED UPP,

Nat

P.S. Try a Mid-Life Mom Bod Tune-Upp if you need step-by-step guidance to lesson your symptoms.