India, June 28 -- Perimenopause is a transitional phase that marks the beginning of the end of a woman's reproductive years. While most people are familiar with common symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods, many women experience unexpected and lesser-known changes during this time that can be just as disruptive, if not more confusing.

Dr Kunal Sood, MD, anesthesiology, drew attention to one such unusual symptom in his May 27 Instagram post. (Also read: Fitness coach shares simple 10 minute no-equipment workout to burn belly fat at home: 'Do this 3 to 4 times a week' )

"Ever smelled smoke or chemicals when nothing's there? Hormone shifts in perimenopause can spark these phantom odours," Dr Sood wrote in the captio...