Concerns About Visual Disturbances
At the age of 22, I experienced something quite unsettling while gaming with a friend. When I momentarily turned my gaze from the television, it felt as though everything around me was receding or shifting in a peculiar manner, resembling an optical illusion. Disturbed by this, I went to the bathroom to gather my thoughts, but by the time I returned, the strange effect had dissipated, and everything appeared normal again. This experience has left me feeling very anxious. What could possibly have caused this? I’m particularly anxious as I can't shake thoughts about the possibility of a brain aneurysm. This incident has only heightened my fears.
Answers (1)
12/15/2025, 2:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that experiencing visual disturbances can be unsettling, and it’s natural to feel anxious about potential health concerns like a brain aneurysm. However, episodes like the one you described could be due to several benign causes rather than a serious brain condition.
Explanation:
The sensation of things appearing to recede or shift, especially after spending time focusing on a screen, is often related to visual strain or temporary disturbances in visual perception. This can happen due to factors like:
- Eye strain: Focusing intently on screens can lead to fatigue in the eye muscles.
- Vestibular issues: Changes in head position can sometimes disrupt your body’s balance system momentarily.
- Stress or anxiety: Psychological factors can also manifest as visual disturbances.
Brain aneurysms typically present with sudden severe headaches or other neurological symptoms, rather than temporary visual disturbances alone. Your experience seems transitory, which is more consistent with benign causes.
Next Steps:
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Hydrate and Rest: Ensure you're well-hydrated and take regular breaks when engaging in activities that strain your eyes, like gaming. The "20-20-20" rule can be helpful: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to give your eyes a rest.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when these visual disturbances occur. Note any other accompanying symptoms (headaches, dizziness, etc.) and whether they change over time.
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Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Engage in relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or physical activity, as managing anxiety can sometimes alleviate physical symptoms.
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Evaluate Viewing Habits: Adjust your gaming environment. Make sure the room is well-lit, and reduce glare on the screen. Position your screen at eye level and maintain a comfortable distance.
If these visual disturbances persist, become more frequent, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms (like severe headaches or neurological changes), consider seeking a professional evaluation for peace of mind. Remember, your mental well-being is important, and addressing these concerns can help you feel more at ease.
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