This is why the symptoms that can affect us are so wide ranging. Less hormone levels in our brain can cause anxiety, brian fog, low mood and irritability. Headaches can occur more frequently, and migraine sufferers can find they see an increased frequency of attacks. Effects on our muscles, bones and skin can cause reduced bone density, joint and muscle aches and itchy or dry skin. Our balance of good and bad cholesterol is negatively affected, increasing plaque build up in our arteries, potentially leading to heart disease.