Transitory Visual and Auditory Disturbances Lasting Under Two Minutes
**(16-year-old female, Australia, weighing 53 kg and standing 167 cm tall, diagnosed with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis)** I have recently been referred to a pediatric neurologist and placed on a waiting list for an EEG due to recurring ‘episodes’ that I had previously categorized as migraines, anxiety attacks, or dizziness spells for approximately four years. However, the frequency and intensity of these occurrences have significantly surged in the last six months, presenting a variety of symptoms. ^(My medical background includes a febrile seizure at 13 months, and there is no known history of epilepsy in my family. I have never used illegal drugs or taken prescription medications. Additionally, my initial brain MRI was clear of any substantial structural abnormalities, though the report lacked comprehensive details due to the expedited nature of the exam.) Some of these episodes, which are generally less than 30 seconds in duration, may manifest as a solitary symptom or a combination of sensations including déjà vu, auditory distortions, intense dizziness, a sudden increase in heart rate coupled with a rush that travels down my legs, and an overwhelming sense of dread and confusion. The severity and nature of my episodes can vary significantly. Recently, a déjà vu episode has evolved into something concerning; - A visual aura typically emerges, displaying vibrant, blindingly grainy patterns reminiscent of stained glass or colorful kaleidoscopic visuals. My heart races uncontrollably following the onset of an unsettling feeling. - My hearing becomes profoundly impaired, making it impossible to distinguish any speech. The experience resembles being submerged underwater while simultaneously using a malfunctioning vintage telephone. - On one occasion, I experienced a pulsating light in my vision that gradually expanded until it reached a momentarily overwhelming, bright white flash. - The dizziness is so intense that lying down feels no different from standing; it envelops me entirely, causing occasionally chattering teeth. - In the aftermath, I find myself sweating profusely from my palms and legs. I also experience neck discomfort, heat sensations radiating towards various regions, and pain around my eyes. **Importantly, no episode exceeds two and a half minutes in length.** To eliminate potential visual problems, I consulted both an optometrist and an ophthalmologist, and they assured me that my vision is nearly perfect, despite a sudden flare-up of troublesome double vision following a particularly severe episode. My general practitioner suspects these may be psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), yet they’ve occurred multiple times after meditating, during vacations, and while I am only half-awake, even though stress, skipping meals, chronic sleep deprivation, and overheating are my key triggers. I am scheduled for a neurology appointment in two days. ^(The ambiguity surrounding my health and feeling marginalized, particularly after my GP suggested this condition is likely psychological, has been both distressing and sorrowful. A pediatrician previously stated that I was under evaluation for a brain tumor, which was followed by a comment questioning my mental state, due to my visible distress from his prior remark, leading to the conclusion of PNES.)
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 10:30:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms and experiences are understandably distressing, and it's important to recognize that what you're going through is real and warrants attention. The combination of visual and auditory disturbances, dizziness, and intense feelings of dread you describe can be indicative of a variety of neurological or psychological conditions. While it's good to hear you have a neurology appointment soon, let's focus on practical steps you can take in the meantime.
Summary of Key Points:
- Your described symptoms may align with various neurological conditions or non-epileptic events such as PNES.
- Stress, sleep deprivation, and other triggers appear significant in your occurrences.
- Your upcoming neurology appointment is crucial for further evaluation.
Explanation:
The episodes you're experiencing can manifest in different forms, resembling what might be classified as seizures or other types of sensory disturbances. When episodes include vivid auras, auditory changes, and physical sensations like racing heart and extreme dizziness, it is often a complex reaction influenced by your mental and physical state. It’s important to pay particular attention to your triggers, as stress, lack of sleep, or underlying anxiety can significantly impact these episodes.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Keep a Detailed Symptom Diary: Document each episode and its context (time of day, activities leading up to it, emotions felt, etc.). This is invaluable for your neurologist to understand patterns and triggers.
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Manage Stress and Sleep: Focus on practices that can help manage stress, such as mindfulness or meditative exercises. Aim for consistent, healthy sleep patterns as sleep deprivation seems to be a significant trigger for you.
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Healthy Eating Habits: Ensure regular meal times and nutritious food to help stabilize your energy levels, as skipping meals can impact your overall well-being.
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Stay Hydrated and Cool: Given that overheating can trigger episodes, ensure you're in a comfortable environment and drink plenty of fluids, especially in warm settings.
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Prepare for Your Neurology Appointment: Note down all your questions and concerns. Bring along your symptom diary to provide detailed information to your healthcare provider, which will help in diagnosis and treatment planning.
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Seek Support: Joining a support group for adolescents with similar symptoms may also help. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can be comforting.
It's understandable to feel anxious about not knowing what's happening with your health, but acknowledging your symptoms and reaching out for help is a significant first step. You deserve to have your concerns validated and to receive the care you need. If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek help from someone you trust or a mental health professional in addition to your medical visits. You're not alone in this.
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