There are a number of different types of perimenopause symptoms including changes in menstrual cycle and hot flushes. A woman going through perimenopause might also suffer from night sweats, coldness, and experience difficulty sleeping. Vaginal discomfort and incontinence are other common symptoms. Aside from the most frequent perimenopause symptoms, there are others which may or may not be present, such as hair loss, dry skin, and irritability.
The severity of perimenopause symptoms varies among women, with less than half finding the side effects difficult to cope with. In the majority of cases, the first noticeable symptom is a change in menstrual cycle. Some women find that the frequency of periods actually increases during this time, while for others it will decrease. Periods may also become heavier or lighter than usual.
Hot flushes are one of the most common types of perimenopause symptoms. These occur both during the day and at night; they are characterized by a sudden feeling of heat that spreads throughout the body. This may cause the skin of the neck and face to become red and can even result in an irregular heartbeat. It can also cause the person to start sweating. If hot flushes occur at night, they are usually referred to as night sweats.
Having trouble sleeping is a common symptom of perimenopause. This can either be difficulty in falling asleep or constantly waking up. Aside from night sweats, sleep may be disturbed by a feeling of stress and anxiety. Sleeping patterns disturbed over an extended period of time can lead to secondary symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and a short temper.
Perimenopause symptoms can also affect the vaginal area. Incontinence, which is difficulty in controlling the bladder, is one potential symptom. The vagina may also feel dry and itchy, along with general discomfort in this area. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more likely among women who are going through perimenopause. These symptoms can also occur after menopause has taken place.
There are a number of other perimenopause symptoms, although these vary in frequency and severity. In contrast to hot flushes, a women going through perimenopause may suffer from periods of coldness. Hair loss and problems with dry skin are two other potential symptoms. Some women may appear more irritable and suffer from frequent mood swings. Since there are so many potential signs of perimenopause, the symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, which is why a professional diagnosis is usually required.