Concerns About My Health: Is It a Brain Tumor or Something Else?
At nearly 16 years old, I find myself grappling with some unsettling health issues. While I’m not exactly sure of my weight, I believe I might be slightly underweight compared to what is normal for me. For about a year, I’ve been questioning whether I might have Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). I've conducted significant research on the subject, and although I've attempted to seek a professional assessment, I’m unable to receive one until I reach the age of 25. However, I have noticed that treating my symptoms as if I have DID seems to provide some relief. In terms of my past, I did experiment with inhalants for a brief period, but it wasn’t extremely severe. I had a period where I took too much medication, but the troubling symptoms I’m currently experiencing emerged some time later, so I don’t believe there's a connection. Over the last few months, I have observed an increase in troubling symptoms, especially since the issues have been progressively worsening over the past few years. My vision has been affected; I often see dark spots, and I underwent a visual field test, where I missed one area the first time and then three areas the second time. I've also noticed frequent moments of zoning out, and my impulse control and behavior have taken a strange turn that I find hard to articulate. Additionally, I’m experiencing a significant amount of headaches, which feel different from usual. They’re localized to a specific area near the right side of my face, close to my jaw, although these headaches are less frequent compared to the other types. Another concern is the emergence of various tics. Although they aren’t severe, they seem to be escalating. I might be experiencing absent seizures, as I occasionally lose awareness for a few seconds at a time. My dreams have become shockingly vivid; they are so intense that sleeping feels more exhausting than staying awake. My concentration has decreased considerably, even while taking my ADHD medication. A significant portion of my symptoms could potentially be linked to DID, especially given the various changes and stresses in my mental landscape. I have tried asking my mother to arrange a doctor's appointment, but she often forgets and sometimes reacts negatively when I bring it up, especially if she doesn’t believe I’m unwell. While I could make an appointment myself, I fear my mother discovering it and getting upset. Just to add context, I reside in Scotland, which may be relevant in terms of healthcare options.
Answers (1)
3/4/2026, 9:10:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a number of concerning symptoms that are affecting both your physical and mental well-being. While it’s natural to worry about serious conditions like brain tumors, many symptoms can have various explanations and don’t always indicate a severe diagnosis. Let’s break down your symptoms and discuss prioritized next steps you can take.
Summary of Main Points:
- You’re experiencing vision changes, headaches, zoning out, tics, vivid dreams, and decreased concentration.
- Your symptoms may relate to your past experiences and possibly linked to DID.
- It’s challenging to arrange an appointment due to your concerns about your mother’s reaction.
Explanation:
The symptoms you’ve described—like visual disturbances, headaches, and moments of zoning out—can stem from various causes, including stress, anxiety, medication effects, or neurological issues. However, they can also overlap with conditions like DID or other mental health issues. It's good to recognize that your symptoms have worsened over time, which indicates a need for professional support.
Headaches localized to your face and jaw could relate to tension or even dental issues, while vision disturbances and zoning out could suggest neurological considerations that warrant further evaluation. More importantly, addressing your mental health, especially regarding DID and its symptoms, is crucial as well.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms:
- Keep a symptom diary to note when symptoms occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This can provide valuable information to a healthcare professional later.
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Seeking Support:
- If you are comfortable, try to independently book an appointment with a healthcare provider or therapist, or seek help from a trusted adult to advocate for you.
- Look for youth mental health services in your area, as they may offer support without requiring parental permission. Websites like Childline and local health services can provide guidance.
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Review Current Medications:
- Discuss your ADHD medications and any other substances with a medical professional. Changes in behavior and concentration could relate to how these medications are affecting you.
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Focus on Stress Relief:
- Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as gentle exercise, mindfulness practices, or hobbies you enjoy. These can help manage symptoms of anxiety and stress.
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Consider Remote Support:
- Explore if online consultations with mental health professionals are available to you. This could be a more private option that wouldn’t involve your mother initially knowing.
Please remember that your health is important, and seeking help is a strong and vital step. You're not alone in this, and there are professionals who can support you. If you experience sudden or severe symptoms like intense vision changes or overwhelming distress, it may be best to seek immediate care. Take care, and I'm here to help if you need more advice.
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