While hot flushes and mood swings dominate the conversation around menopause, a staggering number of women in Northern Ireland are suffering from severe, lesser-known daily symptoms that are completely missing from official health resources.
New research from Specsavers polling 1,000 menopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women reveals that everyday irritations like dry eyes, burning tongues, digestive issues, and tingling limbs are widely flying under the radar.
Alarmingly in Northern Ireland, 54% of women surveyed experience dry eyes – causing their vision to feel gritty (31%), itchy (38%), blurry (54%), and light-sensitive (31%). Despite this affecting one in two menopausal women, only 28% were aware that dry eyes were linked to the menopause, and the condition is not currently listed on the official NHS website page for menopause symptoms.
The study exposed a similar gap for other disruptive symptoms missing from the NHS listing. In Northern Ireland digestive issues (bloating or nausea) affect 33% of women, whilst burning mouth syndrome impacts 17% of respondents, and electric shock sensations throughout the body are felt by 11%.
The good news is that simple, actionable advice and treatment is available that can help soothe these irritations, allowing people to focus on what matters.
Dr Zoe Williams, GP, TV personality, and Specsavers partner, says:
“Hormonal fluctuations, particularly drops in oestrogen, cause systemic changes throughout the body. They alter blood pressure, nerve signaling, gut motility, and drastically reduce tear, saliva, and natural oil production. This triggers a range of symptoms that women simply do not expect.
“Menopause and perimenopause symptoms are often reduced to hot flushes, night sweats, and fatigue. Yet many women experience a wider range of lesser-known symptoms that can be confusing or unexpected, especially when there are no visible, physical signs. I have listed some common, yet lesser-known symptoms below.
Dry eyes
“Dry eyes often feel irritated and uncomfortable. Around 1 in 3 people experience dry eye symptoms, rising to 1 in 2 menopausal women due to declining oestrogen levels. Taking screen breaks, wearing sunglasses and adding omega-3s to your diet may help; a Specsavers optometrist can recommend personalised solutions, including drops and ZEST eyelid cleansing.
Headaches and migraines
“Hormonal changes during menopause can make headaches and migraines more frequent, often alongside dry eyes and light sensitivity. Getting 7–8 hours’ sleep and staying hydrated can help reduce common triggers. It’s also worth speaking to your Specsavers optometrist, who can help identify links to changes in vision or dry eyes.
Itchy or crawling skin
“Falling oestrogen levels can leave the skin drier and more sensitive, which can cause itching or “crawling” sensations. I recommend using fragrance-free moisturisers, avoiding piping hot showers and harsh exfoliants whilst incorporating omega3rich foods into your diet.
Burning mouth syndrome
“Menopausal changes can alter saliva production and nerve sensitivity in the mouth. This can result in a burning, tingling or metallic sensations. To help remedy, drink water regularly, avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and chew sugar free gum to stimulate saliva production.
Joint pain and stiffness
“As oestrogen levels decline, inflammation can increase, leading to stiffness, aching, or swelling in the hands, knees, and hips. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, gentle strength training, and mobility exercises can help support joint health.
Tingling hands and feet
“Hormonal fluctuations can affect how nerves transmit signals, sometimes causing pins and needles or tingling in the hands and feet. Keeping the body moving regularly helps support circulation and reduce nerve irritation – particularly if you spend prolonged periods sitting.
Digestive changes
“During menopause, digestion can slow down resulting in bloating, constipation, or reflux. Increasing fibre gradually will help support regular bowel movements. Walking for 15- 20 minutes after meals, can also be beneficial in stimulating gut motility.
Changes in body odour
“Hormonal shifts affect sweat glands and temperature regulation, which can alter body odour. Choosing breathable, natural fabrics such as cotton or bamboo can help reduce odour causing bacteria. Staying hydrated can also help support your temperature regulation system.
Dizziness or light-headedness
“Fluctuating hormone levels can influence blood pressure, circulation and the inner ear – all of which play a role in balance. Eating regular, protein rich meals helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and blood pressure, both of which are important for balance.”
To address dry eye – one of the most common yet overlooked symptoms – Specsavers is highlighting its advanced in-store ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Technology) procedure. This procedure is also available through the Specsavers Home Visits service.
Paula Cunningham, ophthalmic director from Specsavers Connswater says: “We regularly see menopausal women experiencing dry eyes, often without realising it can be linked to hormonal changes. It’s a surprisingly common issue which can be very uncomfortable, and which many women don’t realise there is treatment for. And the treatment can make a significant difference – not just to comfort, but to the quality of your vision day to day.
Many patients say that after procedures like ZEST, everything becomes clearer, more comfortable, and easier to focus on. It’s a simple step that can have a big impact on how you see and feel.”
ZEST is a quick, painless 10-to-20-minute procedure using a natural, okra-based gel and a specialised swab to deep-clean the eyelids and lashes. By clearing away the biofilm, debris, and mites that block vital oil glands, it delivers immediate, soothing relief, allowing women to regain comfort and focus on their daily lives. To book an appointment, you can make an online booking for an eye test and speak with your local branch directly to book in the ZEST procedure.
