Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS) :
It is a rare neurological condition affecting perception. It can make objects appear much smaller or larger than they are (micropsia or macropsia), distort the sense of time, and even cause body parts to feel like they are shrinking or growing.
These effects resemble the surreal experiences described in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, which is how the syndrome got its name.
Who is Most Affected?
AIWS is more common in children but it can occur at any age.
It is often resolved as the brain matures, but in some individuals, it can be experienced into adulthood also.
AIWS in Adults
It is commonly seen in children but may be triggered in adults also by the following conditions-
- Migraines
- Epilepsy or Seizures – AIWS symptoms may be part of a seizure aura.
- Infections – Viruses like Epstein-Barr, COVID-19, or even the flu can trigger episodes.
- Psychedelic or Hallucinogenic Drug Use – AIWS-like symptoms can appear after using LSD, psilocybin, or even cannabis in some cases.
4.Brain Lesions – Tumors, strokes, or injuries in the temporal or parietal lobes may lead to symptoms.
- Sleep Deprivation & Stress – Exhaustion and anxiety can trigger AIWS episodes.
History of AIWS
The syndrome is named after Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the 1865 novel by Lewis Carroll, because the symptoms resemble Alice’s experiences in the story, such as objects appearing to shrink or grow unexpectedly.
AIWS was first described in detail by British psychiatrist John Todd in 1955. He observed that patients, particularly children, reported experiencing visual distortions, including micropsia (objects appearing smaller than they are) and macropsia (objects appearing larger).
Some researchers speculate that Lewis Carroll himself may have experienced similar symptoms, possibly due to migraines, which could have influenced his descriptions in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Common Causes of AIWS
- Migraines
AIWS is often associated with migraines, particularly migraine auras.
Sometimes AIWS may be also considered as a type of aura that occurs before or during a migraine attack.
- Viral or Bacterial Infections
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes mononucleosis, is the common trigger in children.
Other infections like influenza, COVID-19, and Lyme disease are also linked with AIWS episodes.
- Epilepsy
Temporal lobe epilepsy can cause hallucinations and distortions similar to AIWS.
Seizure activity in the brain may disrupt normal perception.
- Brain Lesions or Trauma
Tumours, strokes, or head injuries affecting the occipital or temporal lobes can lead to AIWS symptoms.
Structural brain changes can interfere with size, distance, and time perception.
- Psychoactive Substances
Certain drugs (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, hallucinogens) can mimic AIWS effects.
Some medications that affect neurotransmitter balance have also been linked to perception distortions.
- Neurological Conditions
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Schizophrenia or other psychiatric disorders
Brain tumours or neurodegenerative diseases
- Sleep Deprivation & Stress
Lack of sleep and high-stress levels may trigger AIWS episodes, especially in individuals prone to migraines or neurological sensitivities.
Symptoms of AIWS
- Visual Distortions (Most Common)
Micropsia – Objects appear smaller than they really are.
Macropsia – Objects look larger than normal.
Teleopsia – Things seem farther away than they actually are.
Pelopsia – Objects appear closer than they should.
Metamorphopsia – Faces, objects, or surroundings look distorted or wavy.
Illusory Motion – Stationary objects may seem like they’re moving.
- Body Perception Changes
Feeling like body parts are shrinking, growing, or changing shape.
Some people feel “disconnected” from their limbs.
A sensation of floating or being stretched out.
- Time Perception Distortions
Time seems to slow down or speed up randomly.
Moments may feel like they last for eternity or pass too fast.
- Auditory & Sensory Distortions
Sounds may be unusually loud or faint.
Hearing distortions, like echoes, robotic voices, or muffled sounds.
Increased sensitivity to touch, textures, or temperature.
- Disorientation & Cognitive Symptoms
Confusion or dizziness during episodes.
Difficulty focusing on words while reading.
Feeling lost in familiar places or as if the environment isn’t real (derealization).
Treatment for AIWS
There is no specific treatment for Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS), but it is more focused on managing the underlying condition causing the symptoms.
- Treating the Underlying Cause
Migraines: If AIWS is linked to migraines, migraine medications (such as beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, or antidepressants) and lifestyle changes (hydration, sleep regulation, and avoiding triggers like stress or certain foods) should be advised
Infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, COVID-19): Symptoms usually resolve once the infection is treated. Rest and antiviral treatments may help.
Epilepsy or Seizure Disorders: Anti-epileptic medications can be used if AIWS is related to abnormal brain activity.
- Symptom Management
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): If AIWS causes anxiety or distress, therapy can help patients cope with the symptoms.
Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, reducing stress, and avoiding triggers (like caffeine or flashing lights) can reduce episodes.
Medication (if needed): Some cases may require medications like anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants if AIWS is associated with psychological stress
Homeopathic Management of AIWS:
Homeopathy focuses on treating the root cause of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS) by balancing the body’s natural healing processes. Since AIWS is often linked to migraines, neurological disturbances, viral infections, or stress, homoeopathic remedies are chosen based on the individual’s specific symptoms.
Common Homeopathic medicine for AIWS
- Belladonna – For sudden, intense headaches, visual distortions, and sensitivity to light. Often used when symptoms come on rapidly and cause anxiety.
- Gelsemium – Helps with dizziness, blurred vision, and weakness, especially if symptoms are triggered by stress or viral infections.
- Agaricus Muscarius – Recommended for distorted perception, seeing things as too large or too small, and uncoordinated movements.
- Stramonium – Used for hallucinations, fear, and confusion, especially when AIWS causes distressing or dream-like experiences.
- Natrum Muriaticum – Useful for AIWS associated with migraines, sensitivity to light, and emotional stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS)
- What is Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS)?
AIWS is a rare neurological condition that affects perception, causing distortions in size, shape, distance, and time. People may see objects or their own body parts as too big (macropsia) or too small (micropsia).
- Who can get AIWS?
AIWS can affect both children and adults, but it is more common in children. Many outgrow it as they age.
- What are the symptoms of AIWS?
Visual distortions (seeing objects too big, small, or far away)
Body perception changes (feeling like hands or feet are shrinking or growing)
Time distortion (feeling like time is moving too fast or too slow)
Sound distortions (hearing things louder or quieter than they are)
Loss of coordination or balance
- How long do AIWS episodes last?
Episodes can last a few minutes to several hours and may occur sporadically. Some people experience them for weeks or months before they disappear.
In conclusion, Homeo Care Clinic offers a holistic approach to treating the disease. The remedies mentioned above can treat the underlying causes of the condition and offer relief from the discomfort. However, it is important to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for the correct dosage and duration of treatment. Homeo Care Clinic provides comprehensive care for various ailments, and offers customized treatment plans based on individual requirements.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our treatment, please visit our website or give us a call +91 9595211594 . Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. If you’re searching for the best homeopathic doctor, we are here to help.
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