[27M] Experiencing head numbness and auditory hallucinations

Patient Description

A 27-year-old male has been experiencing a numb feeling in his head since the age of 20. The numbness varies in intensity and is often accompanied by hearing voices, which the patient associates with alternate personas he created online. These episodes occur once or twice a month and last for about 3 to 5 seconds. The patient describes different levels of numbness: small episodes indicate someone in his head needs something, constant numbness suggests someone is spectating, medium numbness involves feeling effects like drunkenness without consuming alcohol, and intense numbness occurs when he tries to deny or allow these experiences, sometimes resulting in headaches. The patient is currently taking Depakote and Risperdal, which are medications often used for mood stabilization and managing psychotic symptoms. There are no other reported symptoms or known drug allergies.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, your experiences of numbness, hearing voices, and interactions with alternate personas could be related to:

Dissociative Disorders: These involve a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. The feeling of having alternate personas and experiencing numbness could be related to this. Dissociative disorders can sometimes be linked to past trauma or stress.
Psychotic Disorders: Conditions like schizophrenia can involve hearing voices and experiencing sensations that aren't based in reality. The medications you're taking, Depakote and Risperidone, are often used to manage symptoms related to mood stabilization and psychosis.

These conditions can be complex and require a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional to determine the best course of action. Treatment often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support.

What you can do

Consult a Mental Health Professional: It's important to work with a psychiatrist or psychologist who can provide a formal assessment and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. They can help you understand your experiences and manage your symptoms effectively.
Medication Management: Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed. If you have concerns about their effects or side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Therapy: Consider engaging in therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of counseling, to explore your experiences and develop coping strategies.
Journaling: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and gain insights. This can help you and your healthcare provider understand patterns and triggers.
Support Network: Reach out to support groups or communities where you can connect with others who have similar experiences. Sharing your story and hearing others' can be comforting and informative.

What you should look out for

Seek Immediate Help: If you ever feel overwhelmed, in distress, or have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek immediate help from a healthcare provider or emergency services.
Monitor Changes: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms or new experiences. Share these with your healthcare provider to ensure your treatment plan remains effective.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your condition and treatment options. Understanding your experiences can empower you to make informed decisions about your care.

Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources and professionals available to support you on your journey.

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24 d ago

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