According to the Mayo Clinic, perimenopause is the transition of a women's body into menopause. It generally begins when a woman is in her 40s or 50s and continues until she has not had a menstrual cycle for a full year. Common symptoms include hot flashes, forgetfulness, lack of sexual desire and moodiness. In addition, some unusual symptoms might occur too.
Why Symptoms Occur
Menopause marks the end of fertility because the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone. During the pre-menopausal period, begin to fluctuate unpredictably. Since the hormone estrogen is integral to many bodily functions, the changes in level can result in a variety of symptoms.
Unusual Physical Changes
Hair may thin in a variety of ways, including balding, thinning around the edges or falling out in clumps. Since estrogen helps the hypothalamus regulate body temperature, may vary dramatically and cause an unusual odor. Nails may also become brittle.
Unusual Sensations
Skin may tingle, feel numb or have a creepy, crawly feeling. The tongue may feel a periodic burning sensation. Breasts may experience a variety of sensations, including tenderness, tightness, swelling and aching. The pain may be in just one breast and occur intermittently.
Contribution to Other Medical Problems
Changing during perimenopause can contribute to other medical conditions. For example, reduced estrogen levels have an impact on how much calcium is absorbed by bones. Gum problems, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, may result from this change. The onset or increase in the intensity of an allergy may also occur.
Treatment
Unusual symptoms should be reviewed with a doctor. They may be an indication of a more serious medical condition that requires attention. Hormone therapy may help treat perimenopause symptoms. Other remedies involve diet, exercise and stress reduction. Discuss options with your doctor.
Tags: estrogen levels, body temperature