Seeking Recommendations for Pennsylvania Hospitals Regarding Visual Snow and Serotonin Issues
Before diving into my situation, I want to clarify that I'm sharing this information because I'm quite confused about my current state—it's strange, but thankfully not critical. This inquiry arose after an ordeal just three days ago. Hello, I'm Jonathan, a 22-year-old male. **Medical Background:** At the age of 15, I was diagnosed with drug-induced psychosis after using liquid LSD on two consecutive days, which seemed to resolve itself within a year or so. I also have ADHD, resulting in episodes of hyperfixation and dissociation, alongside general anxiety and PTSD—though I question the PTSD diagnosis from my early teenage years. **Substance Use:** My drug history is as follows: I've dabbled in cocaine less than ten times from ages 18 to 21, used marijuana daily, and consumed alcohol twice monthly, with heavy drinking once I turned 18. I experimented with fentanyl and xylazine between ages 18 and 20, developing an acute addiction by 19 without ever resorting to needles. My MDMA use was sporadic, particularly between 18 and 19, where the most I took in one go was approximately 2,000mg spread over four to five days, including combinations with LSD. I’ve also taken Xanax on a few occasions: four times recreationally and twice to help end an LSD trip; methamphetamine five times during distinct highs, with a recent incident just three days ago involving laced meth. Additionally, I tried DMT twice (less than 45mg at age 18), psilocybin less than six times around the same age, and amanita muscaria four times last month—those are the highs from substances in my past. **Prescription Medications:** From age 12 to 17, I was prescribed various antidepressants, anxiety medications, sleep aids, and antipsychotics during a total of four hospital stays. At age 21, I tried Lexapro for one month, starting with 10mg and moving to 20mg in the second week, but I completed that prescription. I was prescribed Ativan on an as-needed basis every six hours, but I never misused it and regrettably lost the script last month. **Recent Experience:** Three days ago, I purchased ten supposed MDMA pills with a friend and ended up consuming four throughout the night. Unfortunately, they were entirely laced with methamphetamine, leading to an overdose. Following this, I started experiencing incredibly distinct visual snow symptoms. My perception is altered—objects appear to vibrate, while I see orb-like particles float or crawl against windows and objects I’m not fixating on. Strangely, it felt like I could see others’ bioelectric fields; mine and my friend's appeared white, while a nurse’s was brighter and green, which he noted was due to his shirt color. In the wake of this incident, I've become more aware of how I perceive objects—a way I’ve always known as normal—despite recalling a near-death episode involving these additional particles. After being referred to r/visualsnow, I became anxious about how long I’ve been viewing things this way. It seems more transparent now, even against closed eyes or in bright settings, and I can often sense it regardless of my focus. Moreover, ever since the overdose, I feel as if I'm lingering in a high-state—a lingering meth afterglow that doesn’t seem to fade. I frequently zone out and confront feelings of hopelessness, leading me to wonder what to do next. I've been managing but genuinely feel lost when considering my previous follies. Reading over everything has made me reconsider my choices. I hope this aligns with the correct community!
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 7:40:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points:
Your recent experience with visual disturbances after a meth overdose is understandably distressing. Given your complex medical history and the current symptoms, focusing on stabilization and understanding what you’re experiencing is critical.
Explanation:
Visual snow is a neurological condition that can cause a constant perception of visual "static," resembling the noise seen on a faulty television screen. This experience can be exacerbated by substance use, anxiety, and other mental health factors, all of which appear relevant to your situation. It's not uncommon for one to feel a heightened sense of awareness or altered perception after consuming substances like methamphetamine, particularly if there’s a history of substance-related disorders.
The feelings of hopelessness and lingering effects you describe suggest you might be dealing with both psychological and neurological aftereffects of your recent recreational use. Consider this as a crucial moment for reflection and realignment regarding your health.
Next Steps:
-
Immediate Self-Care: Aim for stabilization. Focus on regular sleep, hydration, and nutrition. Try to establish a calm routine, avoiding any stimulants or substances that could exacerbate your anxiety and visual symptoms.
-
Avoid Substance Use: It’s crucial to refrain from any further use of recreational drugs, including alcohol and marijuana, as these can increase your symptoms and overall feel of anxiety.
-
Consider Professional Help: Since these symptoms can have both psychological and neurological roots, seeking a mental health professional familiar with substance use and post-acute withdrawal may be beneficial. Therapists or counselors experienced with psychedelic-related issues or trauma can provide strategies to manage your feelings and visual symptoms.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal documenting your experiences, including any changes in your visual symptoms and emotional state. This can provide valuable insights over time and assist a healthcare provider in understanding your situation.
-
Reach Out for Support: Whether through online communities or local support groups, connecting with others who understand your situation may provide comfort and shared experiences, especially regarding recovery and coping strategies.
It's understandable to feel lost right now, but taking these steps can pave the way towards feeling more grounded and in control. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and there are paths toward clarity and healing.
Related Questions
Experiencing Occasional Hematuria: Seeking Guidance
Greetings, medical professionals. I appreciate your assistance with the following situation. **Patient Overview:** - **Age:** 47 - **Gender:** Male - **Height:** 6 feet - **Weight:** 202 pounds **Symptoms Overview:** Approximately three months ago, I began to observe small traces of blood in my urine. It's a minimal amount, usually just a couple of drops occurring at the end of urination. I do not suffer from any pain, fever, chills, or urinary difficulties. Initially, I suspected that this could be linked to kidney stones or exercise-induced hematuria, as I maintain a rigorous exercise routine spanning two hours daily, seven days a week. My workouts alternate between strength training 3-4 times a week and cardio exercises, including rowing, treadmill use, the elliptical, stair climbing, and jump rope. After several weeks, I also observed tiny tissue-like fragments in my urine, prompting me to consult a doctor, as I suspected a urinary tract infection. Although I have an enlarged prostate, my physician considered it a benign issue, attributing the swelling to the potential chain reaction of a UTI leading to bladder infection and subsequently causing prostate inflammation. **Diagnostic Tests and Outcomes:** I underwent a comprehensive metabolic panel, which included tests for glucose, BUN, creatinine, and various electrolytes. All results fell within normal ranges, with the exception of a low BUN/creatinine ratio (8). Additionally, I received a Creatine Kinase (CPK) test, which returned normal results. A complete blood count (CBC) with differential was conducted, showing all parameters, including WBC, RBC, and hemoglobin, to be normal. Urinalysis reflected negative findings for GLU, BLO, NIT, and LEU. However, it indicated a small amount of bilirubin, a ketone level of 15, a specific gravity of 1.025, a pH of 5.5, and a protein level at 30. Uric acid levels were 8.1, within normal limits, though an inflammatory marker was mildly elevated. A sedimentation rate (Westergren) displayed a slight elevation at 19 (normal range is up to 15). A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast yielded several findings: - **Lung Bases:** A few small pulmonary micronodules were noted, but otherwise clear. - **Liver, Spleen, and Pancreas:** All appeared normal without lesions. - **Kidneys:** Normal with no stones or masses. - **GI Tract:** The stomach was mildly distended, but otherwise normal with stool presence noted in the colon. - **Pelvis and Vascular Structures:** Solid organs and vessels appeared normal. - **Other Findings:** Prominent inguinal lymph nodes were potentially reactive, alongside a small left inguinal hernia. **Follow-Up Treatment:** Following these evaluations, my physician prescribed sulfamethoxazole for a duration of 28 days. I adhered to the regimen fully, and while undergoing treatment, all symptoms subsided completely. However, this occurred about a month ago, concluding in late December. **Current Situation:** This evening, after my workout, I noticed the return of blood traces in my urine. While I do not experience pain, I have difficulty with bowel movements, feeling persistently constipated regardless of food intake. This change coincided with a mild tearing sensation during exercise on the adductor machine. Additionally, I have developed a reddish rash on both arms, which had resolved during the antibiotic treatment but has now reappeared. Previously, this rash was effectively treated with prednisone, leaving me unsure if this is connected to my earlier symptoms. **Concerns:** I worry that standard medical tests might overlook a significant issue affecting my prostate, colon, or urinary system. My insurance policy does not cover colonoscopy or prostate evaluation, and I have been advised to consider these procedures, though they would cost nearly $7,000 out of pocket. While I understand the necessity of these assessments if needed, I prefer to seek a second opinion before committing to such expenses. It's important to note that there is a family history of cancer, primarily lung cancer. I welcome any advice or insight into my case and will provide any additional details you may require.
Gene Testing Outcomes Suggest Elevated Risk for MPN
A 27-year-old male of Irish heritage recently conducted a commercial gene analysis, and here are the findings: - **Rs12340895 (C;G)** Result Interpretation: "Doubles the likelihood of developing V617F-positive MPN." - **Rs3780374 (A;G)** Result Interpretation: "Significantly raises the probability of V617F-positive MPN manifestation." Based on my research, it appears that having these two genetic markers indicates a strong predisposition to this particular form of cancer. What steps should I consider taking to either prepare for or potentially postpone the onset of this condition? Should I discuss these findings with my healthcare provider? My studies suggest there isn’t a definitive cure for this condition.
Understanding Preseptal Cellulitis in Children
Hello everyone. I'm reaching out for assistance. My 6-year-old son recently experienced a concerning issue. He woke up on Friday with significant swelling around his eye, nearly closing it entirely. We quickly took him to the emergency room, where doctors diagnosed him with preseptal cellulitis. They prescribed antibiotics, specifically cephalosporin, as part of his treatment. However, after approximately 30 hours on the medication, I’ve noticed that his condition seems to have deteriorated. We’ve been applying warm compresses, which help reduce some swelling temporarily, but he now has a noticeable bump right in the center of the affected area. This morning, he woke up again with his eye completely shut. I’m uncertain whether I should return to the ER for further evaluation. I appreciate any advice or insights you can provide. Thank you!
Unexpected Head Pain During Dance Moves
This may seem humorous, yet I'm genuinely interested in uncovering the cause of this peculiar experience. I’m a 34-year-old female. A few months back, hoping to elevate my mood and get my body moving away from the grip of depression, I decided to play some music and dance in my living room. In a moment of misguided enthusiasm, I attempted to twerk. It's worth noting that I have a long history of lower back discomfort, I've never attempted to twerk before, and I lack the rhythm, flexibility, or skills typical of proficient dancers. As I embarked on my very first serious twerk attempt, a sudden jolt of agony shot through my forehead, nearly causing me to lose consciousness. It felt like being struck with a hammer. I was momentarily blinded by the pain, convinced I might have suffered an aneurysm or something equally serious. This intense sensation only lasted for about a minute, during which I dramatically considered that I might be the first individual to perish from twerking. You might think it was just a case of me bumping my head while trying to dance away my sadness; however, I assure you that this wasn’t the case. Just as abruptly as the pain struck, it dissipated. In that moment, I promised myself to never attempt twerking again. Fast forward to today, and I experienced a similar incident again—not the twerking, but the sudden stabbing pain in my skull. I was engaged in some back stretches, particularly the cat-cow pose, and during the cow portion, I once more felt an intense sharp pain in the center of my forehead, just above my right eye. Stars filled my vision, and everything seemed slightly distorted. This sensation vanished within seconds, leaving me puzzled. What is causing this reaction? How do my forehead and lower back relate in this context? It's baffling! I genuinely seek any insights that might help explain this mysterious phenomenon.
Neurological Challenges Mimicking POTS Symptoms
A 36-year-old female, weighing 265 pounds, is dealing with a complex medical history that includes conditions like Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and a splenic artery aneurysm. There is a tentative diagnosis of hypertensive Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). The patient experiences significant symptoms when not on medication, including a rapid heartbeat (ranging from 117 to 150 beats per minute), dangerously high blood pressure, episodes of vision impairment, difficulty walking accompanied by stumbling and falls, tremors, memory issues, and brain fog. Currently, her medication regimen includes Pristiq, lithium, lorazepam, low-dose naltrexone for pain management, and propranolol to regulate heart rates. She takes ubrelvy when needed. In January, a recurrence of severe pain radiating from her right side led to a hospital admission where her gallbladder was surgically removed due to complications. Although the surgery was successful, she subsequently developed CRPS, further complicating her health. While working in the emergency department, she experienced a sharp tearing pain associated with her known aneurysm. Unable to manage the pain, she informed her manager of her need to leave. During her walk back to her workspace, approximately 1500 feet away, she began to stagger and lost her vision, while also experiencing heavy sweating and shortness of breath. Support from coworkers was crucial, as she lost her strength and collapsed, gasping for air and experiencing vertigo. Her heart rate was recorded at almost 150 bpm and her blood pressure at 152/120. Once lying down, her vitals stabilized but would escalate again with movement. The attending nurse suspected POTS based on her symptoms. Despite efforts to provide explanations, her overnight doctor attributed her condition to anxiety. However, subsequent doctors recognized her situation increasingly suggested POTS and put her on a heart monitor after she began falling to one side, which later confirmed episodes of tachycardia over a monitoring period of two to three days. Her first cardiology appointment revealed a drop in her blood pressure when she stood, further aligning with the POTS suspicion. An echocardiogram was scheduled for the following week, but complications arose the very next morning at work, where rising distress prompted coworkers to assist her following an apparent episode of tachycardia. Administered Ativan temporarily helped alleviate some symptoms, but as her condition worsened, she was transported to the emergency department once again. After several hours of treatment, she was discharged with little clarity regarding her condition. Currently, she takes an extended-release dose of propranolol (80 mg), but without it, her heart rate can exceed 130 bpm, accompanied by memory lapses. Episodes of sporadic vision loss persist, alongside difficulty walking that has progressed to staggering or being unable to move at all, leading to falls. These occurrences are thought to be related to syncope. Neurological evaluations are underway, with initial tests like ECG and EEG returning normal results, but an MRI suggested increased intracranial pressure, though some specialists doubt its relevance. A pain specialist indicated that her pain conditions may not directly correlate but suggested central nervous system dysfunction related to stress could be a factor, as her symptoms often intensify during anxious moments. An Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist found no abnormalities causing her symptoms, and her cardiologist is pursuing further investigation at a specialized clinic, expressing concern about her ongoing employment due to the physical and financial strain it entails. The patient’s aneurysm was treated with an embolism in September, adding another layer to her intricate medical profile, and she is seeking additional perspectives on her challenging situation.