Seeking Insight on Brain-Related Issues
I’m uncertain if this subreddit is the appropriate place for my concern. If there’s a more suitable subreddit for this topic, I would be grateful for your recommendations! About seven years ago, I (25M) had an experience where I took a tab, and halfway through the night, my thoughts began racing uncontrollably. It felt as though something snapped in the lower back of my head, akin to a gear malfunctioning and crashing. Throughout the night, I had a persistent sensation of having something broken. The next morning brought an unsettling ache and pressure in the upper left side of my brain, accompanied by an overwhelming sense of fatigue. I hoped this sensation would dissipate quickly, but it lingered. In the following months, I began experiencing episodes of psychosis that made me feel as though I was on the verge of detaching from reality, and I felt an instinctive need to cling to my sanity. Fast forward to the end of 2020, about a year and a half later, I awoke one day to find a significant reduction in both the pain and the psychosis; I would estimate that I felt roughly 90% improved. The pressure and psychotic episodes subsided greatly, allowing me to regain a sense of normalcy. Over the last six years, my condition has continued to improve. However, I have observed that when I don’t get adequate sleep or am suddenly awakened, the pressure and discomfort return to the upper left side of my brain. Thankfully, the psychosis has not returned. Since 2021, following the majority of my symptoms' disappearance, I've noticed a distinct connection between my sleep quality and the pressure I experience. In 2022, I underwent a CT scan, which revealed no apparent issues, according to the radiologist's report. However, these symptoms persist. Through my own research, I suspect my serotonin receptors may be involved, but I’m open to corrections. Additionally, I've noticed my left eye feels slightly more unfocused than my right, though I’m unsure if this relates to the other symptoms. My sleep quality has also not been optimal over the last five years, despite trying remedies like magnesium and mouth tape. Once again, I apologize if this isn't the right platform for my inquiry. If anyone has insights into why I’m experiencing these issues, I would greatly appreciate any advice or guidance on potential solutions. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 3:10:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experiences; it sounds like you've been through a challenging journey. Based on what you've described, you are experiencing ongoing symptoms related to stress, sleep quality, and possibly neurological function. Let's break down your situation, and I’ll suggest some actionable steps that may help.
Main Points
- You've had persistent pressure and discomfort in your head linked to sleep quality.
- Episodes of psychosis have improved over time.
- Past imaging has shown no apparent issues, but the symptoms continue.
- Concerns about serotonin receptors and a new focus issue.
Explanation
Your reported symptoms, including the pressure in your head and episodes of psychosis, may be connected to stress, sleep disturbances, or even post-psychotic effects. It's encouraging that many of your symptoms have improved, indicating some resilience in your situation. Sleep quality is crucial for mental and neurological health—poor sleep can exacerbate feelings of discomfort and affect brain function.
The sensation in your left eye could also be related to fatigue or eye strain, which may be connected to overall stress or sleep quality. Regarding the serotonin hypothesis, while serotonin plays a significant role in mood and perception, it's essential not to jump to conclusions without further investigation from a professional.
Next Steps
-
Establish a Sleep Routine: Focus on improving your sleep hygiene:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of consistent sleep each night.
- Create a calm bedtime environment (dim lights, cool room).
- Avoid screens (phones, computers) at least 1 hour before bed.
-
Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate daily practices to help manage stress:
- Mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises.
- Regular physical activity, as it can improve both sleep and mood.
- Consider journaling to express thoughts and feelings, which may alleviate mental stress.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptoms diary to track your pressure and discomfort, especially concerning sleep. Note when symptoms flare up and any potential triggers (e.g., stress, lack of sleep).
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Regular Eye Check-ups: Since you noticed a slight difference in your vision, it may be wise to see an eye specialist to rule out any vision-related issues that could contribute to your discomfort.
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Consult with Professionals: Given the complexity of your history, consider speaking with a mental health professional or neurologist. They can provide tailored insights and management strategies specifically for your situation.
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Continual Research and Awareness: Stay informed about any links between sleep, serotonin, and head pressure, but always base your conclusions on reputable sources or discussions with healthcare professionals.
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by these symptoms, but focusing on these manageable actions can help you regain more control over your health and potentially reduce any discomfort you are experiencing. If you have further questions or need additional support, feel free to ask.
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