The term menopause is used to refer to the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. In most cases, this occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Around this time, periods become irregular before they finally stop. It is also a time when estrogen and progesterone levels drop, leading to several changes in the body. These are some early signs of menopause that may interfere with one’s daily life and must not be ignored.

Hot flashes and night sweats
Most women experience hot flashes during the day as a result of menopause. These are one to five-minute-long sensations of warmth, heat, sweating, flushing, or experiencing chills. When these occur at night, they are referred to as night sweats. They can significantly impact the quality of one’s life by interfering with daily activities and sleep. Although medical help can make symptom management easier, only one in four women seek professional advice for hot flashes.

Cognitive issues
Estrogen and progesterone are responsible for supporting memory and brain function among women. Thus, reduced levels of these hormones in the body can also cause brain fog and affect memory and concentration in menopausal women. This leads to frustration, affecting their productivity and outlook towards daily activities. In many cases, cognitive symptoms may further be exacerbated by poor sleep and other stressors. One should consult a professional to manage these early signs of menopause effectively.

Digestive changes
Estrogen is responsible for handling the sensitivity of the digestive tract. As its levels drop during menopause, one could experience new food sensitivities or have an increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This may be accompanied by food cravings, particularly for sugars and refined carbohydrates.

Another common experience many women go through during menopause is a changed perception of how things taste, especially sugar. This could increase their preference for sweeter foods. Further, since estrogen and progesterone levels are in a constant flux, this may lead to increased fluid retention or bloating during this stage.

Discomfort
The discomfort of menopause may also manifest in the form of physical pain. This can be of various types, such as:

• Heavy periods accompanied by bloating and cramping during perimenopause.
• Headaches and migraines commonly occur when estrogen levels drop. These may be worsened by erratic or disturbed sleep patterns and high levels of stress.
• Muscle and joint pain and stiffness, especially in the hands, knees, elbows, or neck as a result of increased inflammation.
• An aching feeling, tenderness, burning sensation, or even a sharp pain in the breast.

Other common signs of menopause also include thinning hair, brittle nails, bladder incontinence, osteoporosis, and dizzy spells. Seeking professional help can aid in the management of these symptoms and help ease the menopausal transition.