Less common menopausal symptoms

Hot flushes and night sweats are the most common menopausal symptoms, affecting around 70 percent of women. But some symptoms are more unusual and you may not connect them with the menopause at the time. Or they can be easily confused with a long-term medical condition or nutritional deficiency. So which more unusual symptoms should you be looking out for?

In the Summer 2016 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, nurse consultant Debra Holloway takes a look at some of the less common menopausal symptoms, including aches and pains, skin changes and itching, bowel or bladder symptoms, palpitations, a change in taste or smell and a dry mouth or burning tongue. She also looks at conditions that can be mistaken for the menopause, including thyroid problems, fibromyalgia and stress.

“If you experience any unusual symptoms, you should always get them checked out, even if you think they could be due to the menopause,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange. “This is particularly important if your symptoms continue for a long time or are severe enough to affect your daily life. Many menopausal symptoms, including less common ones, can be easily managed.”

The Menopause Exchange, which was established in 1999, is completely independent and is not sponsored by any companies. It provides impartial, easily understood information to women and healthcare professionals. The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter contains articles written by top medical experts, such as gynaecologists, GPs, consultants, specialist menopause nurses, complementary practitioners, pharmacists, dietitians etc.

Other articles in the Summer 2016 newsletter include progestogens in HRT, vitamin D and thyroid problems, as well as recent news, Ask the Experts Q&As and details of talks by Norma Goldman.

The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter is available via email for free. Sign up on their website, www.menopause-exchange.co.uk.