Five Overlooked Signs of Perimenopause and Menopause that We Should Know Of
Hot flashes aren’t the only sign of change. Hormone shifts can quietly affect joints, memory, mouth, and even hearing and knowing the signs early helps families support women better.
Perimenopause and menopause bring more than mood swings or skipped periods. Research shows that hormone changes can lead to surprising issues like frozen shoulders, brain fog, burning mouth, higher cholesterol, and ringing in the ears. Understanding these can help women and families take action sooner and avoid unnecessary worry.
Perimenopause is the body’s natural transition before menopause - a stage that can last several years, usually starting in a woman’s 40s. Menopause begins once a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period, around age 51 on average.
Recent studies in journals such as Menopause, Neurology, and Frontiers in Neurology show that these hormonal shifts affect much more than the reproductive system they touch nearly every part of the body.
Methodology
Researchers have followed thousands of women across their midlife years, comparing hormone levels and symptoms. They’ve found that falling estrogen affects muscles, nerves, and even how the brain processes memory and focus.
Key Findings
Menopause doesn’t show up the same way for everyone. While hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings are well known, other symptoms often go unnoticed or are blamed on aging or stress.
Understanding these lesser-known signs can make a big difference helping women feel validated, families know how to support them, and doctors look beyond the obvious.
1️⃣ Frozen Shoulder
Aching pain and stiffness in one shoulder that makes it hard to lift or reach. Often lasts months or longer. Estrogen loss may make connective tissues less flexible.
2️⃣ High Cholesterol
As estrogen declines, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol often climbs. This raises heart risk a reminder that menopause is also a time to check blood pressure and heart health.
3️⃣ Brain Fog
Memory slips, lost words, or trouble focusing are common. These changes are usually temporary but can feel frustrating or even frightening.
4️⃣ Burning Mouth
A burning or metallic taste in the mouth without visible sores. Hormone changes can affect nerve sensitivity and saliva flow. It’s real and treatable.
5️⃣ Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
New or louder ringing can happen as hormones shift. Changes in blood flow or inner-ear nerves may be the reason.
Implications for Practice:
For women: Don’t brush off new aches, strange sensations, or forgetfulness they could be part of the menopause transition.
For families: Understanding what’s happening helps offer patience and support rather than confusion or concern.
For clinicians: These symptoms can easily be mistaken for other conditions. Considering menopause as a possible factor can lead to faster, more accurate care.