We have heard about the common symptoms associated with menopause such as night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness and irregular periods. But what about the less common symptoms menopausal women encounter? Not as much research may be performed on the uncommon symptoms of menopause and they are not talked about as often, but they require attention as women still experience them.

If you have a health issue, particularly one that has affected your lifestyle, you should discuss it with your doctor. Don’t assume that the health problem comes from menopause. However, after meeting with your doctor, don’t be shocked if they diagnose you with symptoms of menopause or perimenopause.

Perimenopause is a stage that leads women to menopause. Women go through hormonal changes which create symptoms like menopause. Typically, a woman does not officially begin menopause until her menstrual cycle has stopped for 12 consecutive months. The symptoms, either common or uncommon, may continue throughout menopause. Some no longer experience symptoms once menopause stops, but other women may keep going through the symptoms past menopause.

Below is a listing of common and uncommon menopausal symptoms from the website 34 Menopause Symptoms. Many women were pleased when they read the symptoms because they were glad to be recognized and not be seen as strange for having the symptoms. They also enjoyed knowing that there were other women undergoing the same  symptoms and that they did not have a fatal condition. Their experiences are a normal part of womanhood.

10 common symptoms of menopause or perimenopause:

  • Hot flashes or flushes
  • Night sweats
  • Loss of libido
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Mood swings, sudden crying and tears
  • Problems concentrating, disorientation, mental confusion
  • Disturbing memory lapses
  • Weight gain
  • Incontinence—specifically when sneezing or laughing
  • Hair loss or thinning on the head, pubic area or entire body  (but increased facial hair)

11 uncommon symptoms of menopause or perimenopause:

  • Dizziness or light-headedness, loss of balance
  • Increase in allergies
  • Change in fingernails such as cracking or breaking
  • quick heartbeat
  • Panic disorder—feeling of worry, anxiety, doom
  • Breast pain (pain or soreness in one or both breasts)
  • Burning feeling on tongue or roof of mouth
  • Electric shock sensation under skin or in head
  • Gum problems—increased bleeding
  • Itchy, scratchy skin
  • Tingling extremities