If you dont know what Alice in Wonderland syndrome (AIWS) is, its not surprising.
Heres what its like to have Alice in Wonderland syndrome, as well as how its diagnosed and treated.
There are some theories that make sense from an anatomical basis, she says.
But although experts agree that its rare, the overall prevalence isnt known.
To date, no epidemiological studies have been done that would show how common AIWS is in the population.
And no universally accepted way to diagnose the syndrome exists either, according to onereview.
This situation was described in a first-person account published inThe New York Times.
Most people get it at some point in their lives.
Rarely, Alice in Wonderland syndrome is a sign of astrokeor brain tumor, says Chatterjee.
AIWS may also be resulting from certain drugs, such as LSD or other hallucinogens.
And there are definitely psychiatric disorders where those kinds of misperceptions are part of the symptoms, says Chatterjee.
An EEG detects changes in brain activity and can be used todiagnose epilepsyand other seizure disorders.
Todiagnose for migraine, a physical exam and the persons symptoms and medical history are examined.
Theres no specific treatment for Alice in Wonderland syndrome, says Chatterjee.
The treatment depends on whats causing the visual disturbance if its migraine, we would usemigraine medication.
If the Alice in Wonderland syndrome is related to seizure, thenseizure medicationwould be appropriate, adds Chatterjee.
For that reason, you wouldnt give medication specifically for the AIWS visual disturbance, he says.
Treatment of AIWS typically focuses on addressing the underlying condition rather than the visual distortions themselves.
Jessica Baity, MD, is a board-certified neurologist practicing in southern Louisiana.
Becky Upham has been professionally involved in health and wellness for almost 20 years.
Upham enjoys teaching cycling classes, running, reading fiction, and making playlists.
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