Should I Seek Immediate Help?
Hello, I'm a 15-year-old female, Lately, I've been encountering a peculiar sensation where it feels as if everything around—and including—myself is vibrating side to side, even while I'm completely still. These episodes typically last for about three minutes when I'm sitting and continue while I'm lying down. To explain it further, I perceive this unsettling experience as my body swaying side to side, and when I glance around, it seems like my surroundings are shaking. My vision feels like it's malfunctioning, as if my eyes are erratically jolting back and forth between the sides, although I believe they remain motionless. While it’s not painful, the sensation is quite uncomfortable and feels very genuine. I want to clarify that I've never taken drugs or received any medications for health issues. Although I have my suspicions about possibly experiencing depersonalization-derealization disorder, that's a different topic altogether. This phenomenon has been going on for some time now, and I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for later this week. However, I've noticed that the occurrences are becoming more frequent, leading me to contemplate whether I should seek medical attention sooner. If there are any inquiries, I'm more than willing to provide additional details. I apologize if this message is a bit perplexing or lengthy. I'm just feeling somewhat anxious about the situation.
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 6:40:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience. The sensations you’re describing—feeling like you’re vibrating or that your surroundings are shaking—can be unsettling and may have several causes, such as anxiety, stress, or even vestibular issues. Since these episodes are becoming more frequent and can impact your well-being, it’s wise to monitor them closely.
Explanation
The feelings you’re describing might be related to a psychological response like anxiety or a physical condition that affects balance and perception. The sensation of your body swaying and your vision feeling disturbed could also relate to how your brain is processing signals from your body, particularly if you’re feeling anxious or stressed. It's good you have an appointment soon, as a healthcare provider can conduct a thorough examination to determine what might be causing these feelings.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a diary noting when these sensations occur, how long they last, and any other symptoms you may experience (like anxiety levels, visual changes, etc.). This will help your doctor understand the situation better.
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Practice Grounding Techniques: Engage in calming exercises that might alleviate your anxiety, like deep breathing or mindfulness meditation. This could help you manage your feelings until your appointment.
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Avoid Stimulants: Reduce caffeine and sugar intake, which can heighten anxiety and potentially worsen sensations.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to support your overall health.
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Reach Out for Support: If you feel overwhelmed before your appointment, consider talking to someone you trust, such as a family member or friend, about your feelings.
If your symptoms worsen significantly or if you develop new concerning symptoms (like severe headaches, changes in vision, or difficulty with balance), consider seeking medical help sooner. It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about this, and taking proactive steps can help you feel more in control.
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