9 Unusual Things That Can Happen During Menopause—and What to Do About Them

Maya had always thought menopause was just about hot flashes and mood swings. But as she entered this new chapter, she quickly realized her body had some unexpected surprises in store.
One morning, she woke up to find her joints aching more than usual — something she hadn’t anticipated. Then, she noticed her skin felt drier and more sensitive. Even her sleep was disrupted by strange night sweats and vivid dreams that left her tired.
At work, Maya struggled with “brain fog” — forgetting simple things and feeling unusually distracted. She also found her emotions swinging like a rollercoaster, sometimes crying over the smallest things.
But the oddest thing? She started craving salty snacks intensely, and her hair felt thinner, almost fragile.
Unsure what to do, Maya visited her doctor. Together, they talked about how these 9 unusual menopause symptoms — from joint pain and dry skin to cravings and hair changes — are common but manageable. With lifestyle changes, gentle exercise, and some hormone therapy advice, Maya began to feel like herself again.
She realized menopause was a complex journey, but with the right knowledge and support, it didn’t have to be overwhelming.