Alice is a rare neurological condition that affects the ability of the brain to process information. Alice in wonderland syndrome is also known as AIWS. People affected with AIWS experience distortions in the perception of reality. It often includes changes in the size, shape or distance of objects, body parts or even time. This condition remains for a few minutes to several hours.
For example, imagine looking at your hands and seeing them grow larger and larger, or staring at a wall and watching it shrink into the distance. These experiences are a reality for people with Alice in wonderland syndrome.
In this blog we will explore everything you need to know about AIWS, from its causes, and symptoms to diagnosis, treatment and strategies to manage them. Whether you have this condition or know someone who is living with it, this guide will provide complete information that you need.
What is Alice in wonderland syndrome (AIWS)?
AIWS is a rare neurological condition that affects the ability of the brain to process information. AIWS is most commonly associated with migraines, infections or epilepsy, but it can also occur on its own.
Causes of Alice in wonderland syndrome
The exact cause of AIWS is still not fully understood, most of the research proves that it is related to abnormal activity in the part of the brain that controls perceptions and sensory processing. There are some common causes that are given below:
- Migraines: Migraine attacks are the most common cause of AIWS. People with migraines are most likely to have this disease. Actually, the AIWS is linked with migraines, particularly those with aura.
- Infections: Viral infections are also the main causes of this condition. Infections are also associated with AIWS.
- Epilepsy: Another main cause of Alice in wonderland syndrome is epilepsy. Seizures affecting the temporal or occipital lobes of the brain can trigger AIWS symptoms.
- Stress or fatigue: Stress and fatigue are also the main causes of AIWS. People with a high level of stress or exhaustion may contribute to episodes of Alice in Wonderland syndrome.
- Medications: There are several drugs that affect the central nervous system and thus lead to AIWS.
- Genetic factors: One of the causes of AIWS is genetic. Sometimes, Alice in wonderland syndrome runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Symptoms of Alice in wonderland syndrome
The symptom of Alice in wonderland syndrome (AIWS) is distorted perception, which can affect vision, touch, hearing and even the sense of time. These distortions are often described as:
- Micropsia: In this distortion the objects appear smaller than their actual size.
- Macropsia: In this distortion the objects appear larger than their actual size.
- Teleopsia: In this type of distortion the objects appear farther away than they actually are.
- Pelopsia: In it objects appear closer than they actually are.
- Time Distortion: In this type of distortion, time may seem to speed up or slow down.
- Body Image Distortion: In this distortion, people with AIWS have seen body parts larger, smaller or misshapen.
These are not the only symptoms of Alice in Wonderland syndrome. There are also some other symptoms that are given below:
- Visual Hallucinations: This is a condition in which people with AIWS see things that are not actually there, such as patterns or colors.
- Auditory Distortions: In this condition, sounds may seem louder, softer, or distorted.
- Disorientation: It is a condition in which people with AIWS feel confused or detached from reality.
- Anxiety or Fear: Anxiety or fear is also the main symptom of Alice in Wonderland syndrome. People with AIWS have constant fear of episodes that can frighten them.
Diagnosing Alice in wonderland syndrome
Diagnosing this condition is very challenging because its symptoms are often misunderstood as other conditions like migraines or epilepsy. If you have any doubt that you are suffering from this condition then it is very important to consult with a health care professional. The process of diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical history: The doctor reviews the medical history of the patient. A detailed discussion of the medical history of the patient can be very beneficial for diagnosing the disease. A discussion on symptoms, triggers and family history proves very beneficial.
- Neurological exam: The neurological exam also plays a main role in diagnosing Alice in Wonderland syndrome. Actually, neurological exams have the ability to rule out conditions like epilepsy and brain tumors.
- Imaging test: Imaging tests are also very important for diagnosing AIWS. Some tests like MRI or CT scans may be used to check abnormalities in the brain.
- EEG: An electroencephalogram has the ability to detect abnormal activity in the brain associated with seizures.
Living with AIWS: Daily challenges
Living a life with AIWS is very challenging in this world. The unpredictable nature of this condition can make everyday life very challenging. Now we will discuss some of the main struggles faced by people with Alice in Wonderland syndrome.
- Fear of episodes: The fear of experiencing a distortion can cause anxiety.
- Difficulty Concentrating: The people with AIWS face great difficulty in concentrating on things. Distorted perception can make it hard to focus on tasks.
- Social Isolation: People with AIWS have a constant fear of being judged or misunderstood by others. So, out of fear of being judged these people prefer social isolation.
Other than these challenges, there are also many other challenges faced by people.
Managing Alice in Wonderland syndrome: Tips and Strategies
While there is no proper cure for this condition, there are many ways by which its symptoms can be managed. With the help of these tips and strategies everyone has the ability to manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of episodes.
1. Identify triggers
- Identifying the triggers of episodes is very important because it helps in managing the symptoms.
- Keep a journal to track when episodes occur and what might have triggered them (e.g., stress, lack of sleep, certain foods).
2. Manage migraines
- If migraines are a trigger, work with your doctor to develop a migraine management plan, which may include medicines and other lifestyle changes.
3. Reduce stress
- Stress is the main cause of AIWS. So, managing it is very important.
- You might practice some relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation or yoga to relax your mind.
- Make sure that you get enough sleep to reduce stress.
- A balanced lifestyle is also very important to manage the causes of AIWS.
4. Create a safe environment
- During an episode, find a quiet, familiar space where you can sit or lie down until the distortion passes.
5. Educate yourself and others
- Educating yourself and others about your condition is also very important.
- Learn as much as you can about Alice in Wonderland syndrome to better understand your condition.
- Educate family, friends, and coworkers about AIWS to reduce stigma and misunderstanding.
6. Seek professional help
- If your episodes are frequent or severe, then consult a neurologist or specialist for further evaluation and treatment options.
Conclusion
Living with Alice in Wonderland syndrome is undoubtedly very challenging, but with the help of rights strategies and support it is possible to lead a fulfilling life. By understanding your symptoms, identifying triggers and taking appropriate and proper medical care you can take control of your health and have the ability to improve the quality of your life.
If you or someone you know is living with this condition, remember you are not alone. There is a growing community of people who understand what you are going through and are always here to support you.