OpenHealth Q&A

Experiencing Neurological Symptoms: Seeking Insight on Episodes of Déjà Vu and Confusion

Age/Sex: Male, 29 years old Weight: Approximately 235 lbs Height: 6 feet Location: United States Background Information: - Underwent mechanical aortic valve replacement along with repairs for an ascending aortic aneurysm and tricuspid valve in February 2024. - Previously experienced panic attacks, which are currently well-managed; however, I used to encounter severe physical symptoms. - Currently prescribed warfarin, metoprolol, and 50mg of Prozac. I do not use recreational drugs, have been nicotine-free for five years, and do not misuse alcohol. - No known epilepsy in personal medical history. - Sleep patterns have been disrupted since the birth of my second child, though I do not suffer from chronic insomnia. - I have a neurology appointment coming up in December, which is the earliest available time. **Neurological Episodes:** **Episode One — Late 2024 (While Driving)** One evening, while driving with family to get food, I unexpectedly experienced overwhelming déjà vu and felt as if I was stuck in it. Internally, I felt a wave of panic; despite this, I remained aware and was able to perform tasks like paying for the food and responding to questions appropriately. This sensation endured for approximately 3 to 5 minutes, leaving me feeling mentally fuzzy and “off” for several days afterward. **Episode Two — Spring 2025 (Post EMDR/ART Therapy)** A few evenings later, shortly following a trauma-focused therapy session and after an hour on the treadmill, I began to feel dissociated and mildly confused. Stress and a headache, possibly a precursor to a migraine, lingered from two days prior. During this episode, I was conscious and could carry out daily activities, but continued to feel fatigued and mentally cloudy for days after the 3 to 5 minutes of heightened stress. **Episode Three — August 12, 2025 (During Treadmill Run)** During a treadmill session, my mind abruptly raced as I tried to recall a memory from a dream. I experienced an intense flush and tingling sensation throughout my body, in addition to rapid, racing thoughts. I slowed down for about 2 minutes until these feelings subsided, then resumed my workout for an additional 40 minutes. The core event lasted roughly 30 seconds, after which I continued to feel dull and unfocused. **During These Episodes:** During all these occurrences, I retained the ability to communicate and engage in complex tasks. For instance, in the most recent episode, I recognized that I was experiencing something unusual, so I slowed down on the treadmill, held onto the rails, and proceeded afterward. **Between Episodes:** I have returned to normal functioning without symptoms; I’m able to drive, run, and work without issues. There have been no chronic headaches, blackouts, or significant memory lapses. **Concerns and Questions:** Could these incidents be classified as seizures—like focal aware or temporal lobe seizures—or are they related to panic attacks, migraine auras, or some other condition? Is it possible for stress, sleep deprivation, or emotional processing triggered by therapy to induce seizure-like symptoms in someone who does not have epilepsy? Are there any warning signs that would necessitate immediate action before my neurology appointment? My primary care doctor suggests these symptoms stem from anxiety or panic related to my extended history of mental health challenges. I have sought and received a referral to neurology for further evaluation.

Answers (1)

8/15/2025, 12:22:46 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to be concerned about your neurological symptoms, especially given your medical history. Based on what you've described, your episodes of déjà vu, confusion, and other sensations may not fit neatly into a specific diagnosis yet, but they certainly warrant careful monitoring and consideration, especially as you await your neurology appointment.

Overview of Symptoms

1. Déjà Vu Episodes: These experiences can sometimes be linked to something called focal aware seizures, especially when they are coupled with feelings of confusion or altered awareness. However, it's also possible they could be related to anxiety or other triggers, like stress from therapy.

2. Dissociation and Confusion: These sensations post-therapy or during exercise could also relate to underlying anxiety, migraine auras, or even the effects of your medications, particularly if you’re undergoing emotional processing from therapy.

3. Physical Symptoms: The flushing and tingling you describe during your treadmill episode can occur with panic attacks, migraines, or even from physical exertion after high-stress events.

Next Steps

Here are prioritized actions to consider in the days leading up to your neurology appointment:

1. Keep a Symptom Diary: Note the dates, times, duration, and details of each episode, including any triggering factors (like stress, exercise, or lack of sleep). This will provide valuable information for your neurologist.

2. Monitor Stress and Sleep: Since disrupted sleep and stress may aggravate your symptoms, consider implementing relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness or gentle yoga, and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule to improve overall well-being.

3. Limit Stimulants and Alcohol: Even if you don’t frequently consume alcohol, be cautious about any substances that may induce anxiety or confusion, such as caffeine and alcohol.

4. Immediate Warning Signs: Pay attention to any new symptoms such as prolonged confusion, repeated episodes within a short timeframe, or any unexpected loss of consciousness. If these occur, seek help immediately.

5. Review Medications: While it’s essential not to make changes without guidance, discuss with your doctor during your next visit if any medication dosage adjustments or alternatives may help with managing anxiety and your overall symptoms.

6. Self-Care Techniques: During stressful periods, practice deep breathing exercises or grounding techniques that help you feel more connected and present, which may prevent feelings of dissociation.

Conclusion

Your neurological episodes require careful observation and analysis, and you're doing the right thing by seeking further evaluation. While it’s natural to worry, focus on managing your stress levels and document your experiences until your neurology appointment. This proactive approach can help you and your healthcare providers better understand the situation and decide on appropriate management strategies. Please feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further support.