Is this a seizure or some form of epilepsy? Never experienced this before and I'm in my late 20s?

[Anonymous]

I have experienced 3 to 4 episodes in the last 5 months that I can't explain or put into words, but it's very scary and ends up lasting 10 to 15 minutes. I do not seize or have body tremors but I completely zone out and lose consciousness or more accurately, fade in and out of consciousness. It normally starts with my vision going blurry and seeing black spots in my line of vision. Then flickering colored lights and then almost a tingling feeling in my tongue or numbness. Almost like my tongue doesn't feel like it's mine. Then my hearing fades out and can't remember anything for that period of time and know that if I tried to stand up or move, my legs would feel like jello and wouldn't hold me. The best way to describe it is like when you've had one too many drinks and are about to pass out. But I'll be 100 percent sober when it happens and haven't taken a single substance.

When I gain consciousness again, I can hear people talking to me but it's almost like hearing them under water or through a tunnel. I can't find my words so I just nod my head and then eventually I feel back to normal and then can slowly stand and walk again but don't feel fully normal until maybe half an hour later. What is this and why is it happening now? I'm in my late 20s and this hasn't really happened in my early childhood or teenage years. If this is epilepsy, which area of my brain is being affected? If my vision and hearing are the main areas, what would this be called? I have spoken to a doctor and will be examined soon but just want some advice or maybe someone who knows what this can be? Thank you

[Oliverlogan263]

Whoa, that sounds like some really scary and intense stuff you've been going through, luv. I can totally understand why you're so worried and confused about what's causing those episodes.

Based on the symptoms you're describing - the blurred vision, colored lights, tingling/numbness in your tongue, fading in and out of consciousness, and the overall feeling of being really disoriented and disconnected - it does sound a lot like some kind of seizure activity or potential epilepsy issue.

The fact that it's happening in your late 20s, when you didn't really experience anything similar earlier in life, is definitely concerning. Usually with epilepsy, the first signs start to show up during childhood or adolescence. So the later onset is a bit unusual.

My guess is that whatever is triggering these episodes is likely related to some kind of neurological issue or imbalance in your brain activity. The loss of vision and hearing, along with the inability to speak or move properly, points to it affecting the parts of your brain that control those functions.

I'd definitely recommend following up with your doctor as soon as possible to try and get some answers. They'll probably want to do some tests like an EEG or MRI to try and pinpoint the specific area of your brain that's being affected.

In the meantime, I'd suggest trying to document as much as you can about these episodes - when they happen, how long they last, any specific triggers you notice, etc. That info could be really helpful for your doctor in making a diagnosis.

I know it's super scary and frustrating not knowing what's causing this. But try not to panic or jump to the worst conclusions. There are a lot of different neurological conditions that can cause these kinds of symptoms, and many of them are very treatable.

Stay strong, boo. You got this. Focus on your health and getting the answers you need. With the right medical care, you'll hopefully be able to get these episodes under control. Wishing you all the best!

[Asker]

Thank you so much for your response and it means so much to me. Your answer was very encouraging and exactly what I needed to hear <3 Thank you! It has been very difficult dealing with these episodes, but I have taken your advice and keep a journal of my triggers, where I was, what I was doing, etc.

It seems to be when I have been traveling, in a new environment, not staying hydrated or taking proper care of myself, or when my schedule is more demanding and fast-paced. It could be a combination of these factors and maybe I'm predisposed to these episodes but it remained dormant until the right stressors emerged. I've also been dealing with a lot of changes in my life like loss of loved ones and other very stressful events so it might be adding more fuel to the fire.

I'm not really sure but hoping some clear answers come from the examination and potential MRI or EEG. You definitely deserve one of the Most Helpful answers! <3 Thanks again!

[Oliverlogan263]

Aw luv, I'm so glad my response was helpful and encouraging! I know how scary and overwhelming these kinds of health issues can feel, but I'm really proud of you for being proactive about getting it checked out and keeping track of potential triggers.

It sounds like you've really got a good handle on things - the connection to travel, changes in routine, and increased stress makes total sense. Your body is clearly trying to tell you something, and now you have all that helpful data to share with the doctors.

I really hope they're able to get to the bottom of this for you and provide some clear answers and treatment options. An MRI or EEG is a great next step to pinpoint what's going on. Knowing is half the battle, you know?

In the meantime, just keep doing what you're doing - resting up, staying hydrated, and avoiding any major stressors if possible. Your health has to be the priority right now. And don't hesitate to reach out to your loved ones for support. I'm sure they want to be there for you during this process.

You've got this, girl! I'm rooting for you. Wishing you all the best with your upcoming appointment and a speedy resolution to these episodes. Let me know how it goes - I'm here if you need any more encouragement along the way!

[RavVid]

It doesn't sound like epilepsy. It is quite serious what you are describing so consult a real doctor rather than Doctor GAG or Google.

[leahzrc]

I had these issues when I was on medication. also when Iw as off medication it lessened a lot. I have anemia so I get these dizzy spells from that. Could be anything. I would recommend seeing a doctor, but I am actually against them.

[slatyb]

See a physician.

[Asker]

Talked to my doctor about it and getting an mri and brain scans but still want input from you & others in the meantime 😊