Premenopause, also known as perimenopause, is the period of initial hormonal changes that precedes actual menopause. Some women experience a variety of symptoms that begin years before menstruation ceases; others have no noticeable symptoms. Common symptoms include menstrual irregularities, hot flashes, sleep difficulties, reduced libido, fatigue, mood disturbances and discomfort in the breasts, urinary tract and vaginal area. But some women experience symptoms that are less common.
Hair Loss
Hormonal imbalance can affect the natural cycle of hair follicles, which control the growth of individual strands of hair. Individual follicles may prematurely enter the resting state, or remain in that state for an unusually long period. This results in thinning hair or bald patches. At the same time, hair growth on the face may increase.
Memory Lapses
Seniors may complain about memory problems and laugh about "senior moments," but women going through menopause--who may be as young as in their 30s--can suffer from memory lapses as well. They may find themselves forgetting what they just heard or read or struggling to remember what they were about to do.
Weight Gain
Some women may begin gaining weight, particularly around the middle in the waist, hips and thighs. One proposed explanation is that as the ovaries decrease production of estrogen, the body begins to rely more heavily on estrogen from body fat, promoting fat storage.
Heart Palpitations
For some women, the physiological changes of premenopause result in occasional irregular heartbeat and palpitations. Such people may experience discomfort in the chest and a sense that the heart is racing. Anxiety may accompany these sensations or be absent altogether.
Acne
Hormonal shifts during premenopause typically include an increase in the ratio of male hormones, known as androgens, to female hormones. The relative increase in male hormones such as testosterone can lead to acne in some women, whether or not they had problems with acne as a young adult.
Problems Concentrating
Women undergoing the changes of premenopause may find it difficult to concentrate on the task at hand. Focusing may become more difficult because the change in hormone levels can affect the levels or function of neurotransmitters in the brain. This problem often goes hand in hand with memory problems.
Indigestion
Digestive problems associated with premenopause include gas, indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux, flatulence and nausea. Some women also experience a bloated feeling. Symptoms may be worse upon first waking in the morning, or follow a different pattern or no pattern at all.
