Is This Normal? 7 Weird Perimenopause Symptoms No One Warns You About

No, you’re not losing it. Your hormones are just hosting a rave and didn’t invite your nervous system. Every cell in your body is in perimenopause.

You’re not imagining it. And no, you’re not broken.

Perimenopause -the hormonal rollercoaster that hits years before actual menopause - can show up like a bad prank with zero warning. Most of us are told to expect hot flashes and maybe a missed period here and there. But what about the heart palpitations? The electric zaps? The crawling skin?

If your body feels like it’s glitching and your doctor says “everything’s normal,” this one’s for you.

1. Itchy, Crawly, Prickly Skin

Hormonal shifts, especially declining estrogen, affect your skin’s collagen, hydration, and barrier function. The result? Random itching, burning, tingling, or the delightful sensation that ants are marching under your skin.

Common areas: chest, back, face, arms, scalp

What can help:

• Omega-3s (fish oil or flaxseed)

• Collagen-supporting foods (bone broth, vitamin C)

• Avoiding harsh soaps or hot showers

• Magnesium oil or calming creams (try oat-based)

2. Heart Palpitations or Racing Heart

You’re not having a heart attack (probably). Estrogen helps keep your cardiovascular system stable. When levels dip, you might feel flutters, skipped beats, or racing,even when you're chilling on the couch.

Important: Always check with your doctor to rule out cardiac causes, especially if it’s new.

What can help:

• Magnesium + potassium (diet or supplement)

• Breathwork (4-7-8 breathing = gold)

• Reduce caffeine, stress, and blood sugar spikes

• Gentle movement like walking or yoga

3. Burning Mouth Syndrome (Yes, It’s Real)

If your mouth feels like it’s on fire, metallic, or dry for no reason, yep, that could be perimenopause. It’s linked to changing estrogen levels affecting oral tissues and nerves. (Every cell of your body remember?!)

What can help:

• Avoid spicy or acidic foods

• Use a natural mouth rinse (baking soda + water)

• Talk to your doctor about local estrogen

• Hydration + oral care = essential

  
  

4. Electric Shock Sensations

You might feel a sudden zap, jolt, or buzz, usually in the limbs, head, or chest. This bizarre symptom is thought to be caused by estrogen’s effect on the nervous system.

What can help:

• B12 and magnesium support

• Avoid blood sugar crashes

• Rest, hydration, and gentle stretches

• Talk to your GP if it’s frequent or worsening

5. Body Odour Changes (Like… What Even?)

If your sweat suddenly smells different or stronger, it’s not in your head. Estrogen regulates your sweat glands and skin microbiome, and when it drops, your body’s scent can change.

What can help:

• Natural deodorants with magnesium or charcoal

• Hydration + cruciferous veg (helps detox pathways)

• Limit processed sugar and alcohol (they mess with gut flora + odour)

6. Buzzing or Vibrating Sensations in Limbs

Some women describe this as a phone vibrating under their skin or a constant internal hum. It’s another nervous system side-effect tied to fluctuating estrogen and cortisol.

What can help:

• Sleep hygiene (yep, again)

• Grounding practices like walking barefoot or using an acupressure mat

• Adaptogens like ashwagandha may help regulate cortisol (check with your healthcare provider for medication interactions before taking supplements

7. Random Twinges, Joint Pain or Stiffness

Perimenopause can inflame everything, literally. Estrogen has an anti-inflammatory effect, so when it drops, you may feel more achy, sore, or stiff for “no reason.”

What can help:

• Anti-inflammatory foods: turmeric, omega-3s, leafy greens

• Low-impact strength training

• Epsom salt baths

• Joint-supporting supplements (collagen, glucosamine)

So… Is This Normal?

Short answer: Yes.Longer answer: Yes, but you still deserve support.

Perimenopause can feel like your body’s turning on you, especially when the symptoms are weird, random, and totally unmentioned by your GP. The good news? You’re not alone, and there are tools that can help. Always talk to your GP or healthcare provider before changing medication, or before taking supplements, as they can interact.

Join the Knew You Society to learn more, share your experience, and find your strength in community.

References and Recommended Reading:

• Jean Hailes for Women’s Health – www.jeanhailes.org.au

• Cleveland Clinic – www.clevelandclinic.org

• Newson Health Menopause Society – www.newsonhealth.co.uk

• Harvard Health Publishing – www.health.harvard.edu

• Office on Women’s Health (US) – www.womenshealth.gov

• Journal of Women’s Health – 2021 Review on Neuroendocrine Symptoms of Menopause