Bizarre Episodes: Is There a Reason for Concern?
At 20 years old, I, a female, have been experiencing strange episodes primarily when I’m seated and not very active. Initially, these instances occurred while I was in class, but lately, they have become more frequent during car rides. Suddenly, I become overwhelmingly fatigued, nearly collapsing, and my eyes start to behave strangely. One can cross while the other may look upwards or tremble, creating an unsettling visual effect. This intense fatigue often causes me to lose consciousness for about five minutes, after which I regain my composure and feel perfectly fine again. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to capture an instance of these episodes during doctor visits or testing. I'm seeking insights into what might be occurring so I can find ways to mitigate it. My therapist has mentioned the possibility of intrusive sleep stemming from my anxiety, but it feels like there’s more to it than that. I have a diagnosis of anxiety and autism, in addition to facing autoimmune issues and blood sugar fluctuations. (Interestingly, my blood sugar levels remain normal during these episodes.) Currently, I’m on a regimen that includes citalopram, Lyrica, and the birth control pill. Despite consuming significant amounts of caffeine, I’ve noticed no correlation between my caffeine intake and the occurrence of these episodes. I apologize if my writing seems a bit disjointed. Please feel free to inquire about any additional details that might assist in understanding my situation better.
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 6:01:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing concerning episodes characterized by fatigue, altered eye movements, and temporary unconsciousness, which understandably raises questions about your health. While it’s excellent that you’re proactive in seeking clarity, prioritizing your well-being is key.
Explanation:
Your symptoms, especially the sudden fatigue and loss of consciousness, are significant. It’s important to consider various causes, from neurological conditions to potential blood flow issues. Given your medical history of anxiety, autism, autoimmune issues, and fluctuating blood sugar levels, there could be multiple factors contributing to these episodes. However, the normal blood sugar levels indicate that they may not be the direct cause.
Some possible considerations might include:
- Neurological issues: Conditions like seizures or fainting spells can manifest with your described symptoms.
- Postural issues: Sometimes, sudden changes in posture can lead to feelings of faintness.
- Anxiety-related episodes: While your therapist suggested this, anxiety can sometimes produce physical symptoms that mimic other conditions.
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Symptom Diary: Record the details of each episode – what you were doing, how you felt before and after, and any potential triggers. This will be useful in identifying patterns and should be shared with your healthcare provider.
-
Monitor Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are staying well-hydrated and eating balanced meals, focusing on stable blood sugar through complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats.
-
Limit Stressors: Manage stress levels through relaxation techniques or mindfulness, as stress can exacerbate both anxiety and physical symptoms.
-
Consult with a Neurologist: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to see a neurologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend monitoring your brain activity or other imaging studies; this is important for ruling out conditions like seizures.
-
Avoid Excess Caffeine: Although you haven’t noticed a correlation, cutting back on caffeine may help eliminate any potential influence it might have on your nervous system.
Keep advocating for your health, and know that addressing these episodes with a professional who can provide specialized advice will likely lead to more clarity. If symptoms worsen or change significantly, seek immediate assistance. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further assistance.
Related Questions
24-Year-Old Female with Hypoechoic Thyroid Nodule and Complex Symptoms Seeking Differential Diagnosis
Greetings, I’m a 24-year-old woman currently undergoing training in an ultrasound program. Approximately two months ago, I identified a hypoechoic nodule located on the lower-back section of my left thyroid lobe during a training session. The nodule is about 1.5 cm in size, displaying disorganized internal blood flow, irregular contours on transverse imaging, and potential outward growth into the carotid sheath. Additionally, it seems to be in close proximity to the carotid artery, as observed through Doppler imaging. I recently underwent a detailed ultrasound exam, which not only confirmed the presence of the nodule but also indicated the following notable findings: * Multiple swollen lymph nodes in the neck, largely oval in shape, with some notably losing their echogenic core. * Abnormalities in the left parotid and submandibular glands, characterized by notable shadowing and several small, very hypoechoic, shadowy masses. * I also passed visible stones from Stensen’s duct several days before the ultrasound. **Systemic symptoms experienced in the past 4 to 6 weeks:** * Approximately 10-pound unintentional weight loss. * Decreased appetite and diminished thirst. * Severe exhaustion and weakness. * Dry, thinning hair resembling straw. * Frequent bruises and slow wound healing. * Cognitive disturbances including foggy thinking, feelings of disconnection, and reduced cognitive speed. * Severe insomnia, for which I depend on a combination of 50 mg trazodone, 50 mg doxylamine, and 10 mg melatonin each night. I have no previous history of thyroid conditions or chronic illness, and I’m currently not experiencing any fever or sore throat. My vital signs have remained stable. I have laboratory tests planned for this week, along with a physical examination scheduled for July 1. **Considering the array of symptoms related to the thyroid, lymphatic system, salivary glands, and systemic issues, what differential diagnoses should I explore?** Do the circumstances suggest a risk of malignancy or an autoimmune disorder? I appreciate any insights you can provide.
Managing Sinus Tachycardia, Anxiety, and EPS: Consultation with Healthcare Providers
At the age of 40, I identify as FTM and have been on testosterone for the past 8.5 years. I have a history of schizophrenia diagnosed in 2006, along with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) diagnosed in 2001. Currently, my medication regimen includes Abilify Maintena at 400mg, Saphris at 5mg, Effexor XR at 300mg, Artane at 5mg (used for extrapyramidal symptoms), Strattera at 60mg, and Topamax at 150mg for weight management and mood stabilization. I weigh 130 pounds and stand 5 feet 3 inches tall, and I also have minor renal impairment that has developed over a decade of lithium use related to diabetes insipidus. In 2006, I was informed of having sinus tachycardia during a routine psychiatric hospitalization, where vitals were taken twice daily. To monitor my heart condition, I've undergone several echocardiograms and wore Holter monitors, which have shown no physical abnormalities, yet my pulse remains elevated. Prior to surgeries (including wisdom teeth removal, tubal ligation, and top surgery) and ECT sessions in 2008 and 2022, I have always had an EKG, an echocardiogram, and a Holter monitor performed. The results before my ECT in 2022 indicated a diagnosis of moderate sinus tachycardia. Experiencing significant anxiety affects me physically; I undergo cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and take Effexor to help manage it. My anxiety now largely presents through physical symptoms such as shakiness, rapid heartbeat, gastrointestinal distress, and stuttering. I also deal with extrapyramidal symptoms due to my antipsychotic medications. Despite adhering strictly to my prescribed medication routine, I strive to maintain a level of physical activity in my life. I've come across information suggesting that beta blockers, like propranolol, might alleviate the physical manifestations of anxiety, as well as the EPS linked to antipsychotic medications and sinus tachycardia. Although I remain skeptical about AI resources like chatGPT, I find drugs.com to be a trustworthy source of information. Currently, I'm on a low dosage of Artane to manage EPS, but I dislike its side effects, even though it offers some relief. My blood pressure typically reads around 120/80, occasionally slightly lower. Could this possibly be relevant to my situation? I am curious if a beta blocker would be effective in addressing my issues with tachycardia, anxiety, and EPS. Would it be advisable to consult with my general practitioner (who I've trusted for 12 years) or my psychiatrist (who I've seen for 14 years)? They do share my medical notes with each other, which is very helpful. I have an upcoming appointment with my psychiatrist on July 4 to discuss a blood work requisition and potentially start on Abilify Asimtufii, a new long-acting injectable version of Abilify available in Canada. Alternatively, I might just receive my regular Abilify Maintena injection if they haven't yet introduced Asimtufii. I intend to schedule a visit with my GP around the same timeframe as well.
Understanding My Unusual Skin Bumps: Should I Worry?
Age: 26, Height: 5'8", Weight: 130 lbs. I have no allergies, except for penicillin, and maintain a typically healthy medical background. During my recent trip to Portugal, I observed the emergence of small, pimple-like bumps on my body, which began appearing almost immediately after my arrival. Strikingly, these bumps are concentrated solely on the left side of my body. The initial appearance was on my left hand, and they've since ascended along my forearm and are now extending towards my left knee. Although I spent two days sunbathing, I did apply sunscreen, albeit with a lower SPF than recommended. Initially, I hypothesized that these could be sun blisters; however, their appearance does not match what I found online, nor do I have any signs of sunburn. Could there be another explanation for these bumps? Having traveled to Portugal annually since my birth, I feel relatively accustomed to the environment here, but is it possible that I’m being impacted by a local allergen? Or is it something fundamentally different altogether?
Navigating a Tubo-Ovarian Complex Diagnosis: Next Steps After Antibiotics
In January 2025, I have a scheduled appointment with my OB-GYN as my husband (31M) and I (30F) have been quietly trying to conceive for the past few years. Since my diagnosis of PCOS in 2020, I realized I might need additional assistance with our journey. On January 18th, a transvaginal ultrasound revealed the presence of a "tubo-ovarian complex" in my right ovary, measuring 4.47 cm x 4.08 cm x 3.89 cm, with moderate blood flow observed during color mapping, rated at a score of 3. The examination showed a positive sliding sign, accompanied by tenderness upon manipulation of the probe. By January 23rd, I had begun a course of intravenous antibiotics and completed a two-week regimen of doxycycline combined with metronidazole. However, by May 27th, a follow-up transvaginal scan indicated a persistent abnormality in the right adnexal region, measuring 4.1 cm x 2.4 cm x 3.2 cm. Additionally, a tubular structure noted in the left adnexa is likely the fallopian tube, and some fluid was present in the pelvic peritoneum. Unfortunately, my next appointment with the OB-GYN isn’t until mid-September. While I wait, I’m left wondering what my options might be since the antibiotics haven’t resolved the issue. Is surgery or abscess/cyst drainage something I should anticipate? Currently, my symptoms are somewhat sporadic; I experience mild, intermittent pain in the pelvic area that often goes unnoticed. I frequently have the urge to urinate, although I’m uncertain whether it relates to the ovary issues. Notably, I do not experience tenderness when applying pressure to my right lower abdomen. I’ve observed that the discomfort tends to intensify when I hold my bladder for too long, become dehydrated, or am under stress. Thankfully, most of the time, the pain isn’t severe.
Post-Surgery Concerns After Appendectomy
I’m a 25-year-old assigned female at birth doing my best to manage ADHD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and depression, alongside allergies to both Amoxicillin and pollen. My current medications include Adderall XR, Trazodone, Intuniv, Prozac, and Sprintec, while I’ve recently stopped my testosterone treatments. Yesterday, I underwent an emergency appendectomy, marking my first experience with anesthesia and surgical procedures. I am currently experiencing considerable soreness and I apologize for any errors in my writing due to this discomfort. I have a few inquiries regarding my post-operative care. To begin with, my incisions were sealed with stitches and glue, but they were left uncovered. Is this typical? I’m very worried about the risk of infection. Should I apply any dressings at home, and if so, what materials are recommended? Additionally, there was a plan for me to remain in the hospital for another night since the pharmacy had already closed by my discharge time. However, my surgical team insisted that I be sent home instead. Moreover, I noticed that none of the adhesive stickers for the oxygen tubes were removed before my discharge, and the areas hadn't been shaved prior to application. My nurse expressed disbelief over this oversight. Is it possible that my surgical team simply missed this step? Perhaps I woke up too soon for them to remove or manage these items before I left? I do recall not being particularly compliant during the recovery phase; I was thrashing around and quite vocal due to my discomfort and confusion, though I did express regret for my behavior. Is this all part of the usual recovery process following an appendectomy? I appreciate any insights you can provide to help me understand the situation better.