5 lesser-known symptoms of menopause, shared by top NHS doctor

Symptoms of menopause: Caffeine can worsen menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and anxiety (Image: Canva)

• Menopause can cause gum issues, hearing changes, and balance problems
• Lower estrogen slows caffeine breakdown, affecting sleep
• Skin heals slower and becomes thinner during menopause

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Menopause symptoms are a result of hormonal changes, mainly lower estrogen. While most women know some of the common issues that include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, mood swings, and more, Dr Amir Khan, a UK-based GP, author, and TV doctor, spoke about 5 symptoms that menopausal women might have without even realising it.

Taking to his Instagram account, Dr Amir Khan in his new post said, “I want to talk about five things falling estrogen levels around the menopause affects that you might not know about.”

5 lesser-known menopause symptoms

Gums and teeth

Many women may be suffering from oral health issues without realising they are connected to menopause. Dr Khan explained, “Falling estrogen can cause gum inflammation and dry mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss. Some women even notice their teeth feeling more sensitive or loose.”

Also read | What is menopause, signs and symptoms of this natural transition, expert tips to manage

Hearing changes

If you find changes in your hearing, it may be connected to menopause. “Estrogen actually helps protect the delicate hair cells in the inner ear. So when levels drop, hearing can become less sharp, especially for higher-pitched sounds,” Dr Khan said.

Coordination and balance

“Now, lower estrogen affects the inner ear and muscle strength, both key to balance. One reason falls become more common after the menopause,” Dr Khan noted. If you experience unusual dizziness, clumsiness, or balance issues, don’t take them lightly and consult a doctor.

Also read | Menopause can be delayed if you include these nutrients in your daily diet, gynecologist explains

How your body handles caffeine

Caffeine can actually worsen menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and anxiety. What’s more, Dr Khan said, “With less estrogen, your liver breaks down coffee more slowly so that afternoon coffee can suddenly keep you awake all night.”

Skin changes

It becomes more important to take care of your skin as menopause affects it adversely. Dr Khan explained, “Your skin’s ability to heal takes a hit. Estrogen helps maintain collagen and blood flow to the skin. As it drops, cuts and bruises can take longer to heal, and skin becomes thinner and more fragile.”

FAQs on Symptoms of Menopause

1. What are some lesser-known symptoms of menopause?

Menopause can cause gum inflammation and dry mouth, which may lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Teeth may also feel more sensitive or loose.\

2. Can menopause affect hearing?

Yes, lower estrogen levels can decrease hearing sharpness, especially for higher-pitched sounds, as estrogen protects the delicate hair cells in the inner ear.

3. How does menopause impact coordination and balance?

Reduced estrogen affects the inner ear and muscle strength, leading to balance issues and an increased risk of falls.

4. Does menopause influence how the body handles caffeine?

Yes, lower estrogen levels slow down caffeine metabolism, which can worsen menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, and cause sleep disturbances.

5. How does menopause affect the skin?

Menopause decreases collagen and blood flow to the skin, causing cuts and bruises to heal slower and making the skin thinner and more fragile.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.