040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: Causes ,Symptoms, and Treatment
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr M Naga Suresh , Neurologists
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome is a rare condition that affects how the brain interprets what you see and feel. It can make your surroundings look stretched, shrunken, or distorted, and sometimes your own body may feel oddly sized.
Eyesight problems don't cause these unusual experiences to happen because of changes in how the brain processes information. Though the name sounds like a fantasy, this condition can be confusing and even scary, especially for children, but it's often temporary and treatable.
What is Alice In Wonderland Syndrome?
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome is a rare condition that affects how the brain processes what you see and feel. People with AIWS may see objects as much smaller or larger than they really are, or feel like their own body is changing shape or size. The name comes from the famous story by Lewis Carroll, where the main character has similar strange experiences.
Who Can Be Affected by Alice in Wonderland Syndrome?
AIWS is most often seen in children, but it can affect adults too, especially those with certain health conditions like migraines, epilepsy, or viral infections.
It's not very common, and because the symptoms are short-lived or unusual, it may often go undiagnosed.
What are the Symptoms of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome?
AIWS symptoms vary from person to person. Some people see things differently, while others feel strange in their own bodies.
For example:
- Your hands or head may seem too big or too small.
- People or objects may appear far away or unnaturally close.
- Time may seem to slow down or speed up.
- You might feel disconnected from your surroundings or your own body.
- These symptoms are not dangerous by themselves, but can be very confusing or unsettling.
What are the Causes of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome?
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome can be caused by various factors affecting the brain. It's often linked to migraines, infections, or certain neurological conditions. Understanding the cause can help guide proper care and treatment.
AIWS can be triggered by a variety of things:
- Migraines (especially in teens and adults)
- Viral infections, like the Epstein-Barr virus (common in children)
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Mental health conditions, like depression or anxiety
- Certain medications or recreational drugs
- Brain injuries, tumors, or other neurological problems
- It's important to know that AIWS is not contagious, even if caused by an infection.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow is Alice in Wonderland Syndrome Diagnosed?
There is no specific test to diagnose AIWS. Doctors usually base the diagnosis on the symptoms described. To rule out other possible causes, they may recommend:
- MRI or CT scans to look at brain structures
- EEG to check brain activity
- Blood tests or a spinal tap if infection is suspected
- Vision tests to rule out eye-related issues
- The goal is to make sure nothing more serious is behind the symptoms.
What are the Treatment Options for Alice in Wonderland Syndrome?
There is no specific cure for Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, but treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause, such as migraines or infections. Most symptoms improve over time with proper care and support.
For example
- Migraine medications if headaches are involved
- Antiviral or antibiotic treatment for infections
- Antiseizure medicines if linked to epilepsy
- Therapy or support for mental health-related causes
In many cases, especially in children, AIWS fades away on its own with time.
What is the Recovery Process After Alice in Wonderland Syndrome Treatment?
A Team of pediatric neurologists and specialists work closely with families to provide timely evaluations, advanced diagnostics, and gentle, effective care.
From managing migraines to handling complex neurological concerns, we are committed to supporting long-term wellness and peace of mind.
When Should You See a Doctor for Alice in Wonderland Syndrome?
You should see a doctor if you or your child starts to experience strange symptoms like seeing objects as much smaller or larger than they really are, distorted body image, or feeling like time is moving too fast or too slow. These symptoms may come and go, but even if they're brief, they can be confusing and upsetting.
You should also get medical help if these episodes happen often, affect daily life, or are linked to headaches, vision problems, confusion, or seizures. While Alice in Wonderland Syndrome is rare, it can sometimes be related to other conditions like migraines, infections, or epilepsy.
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Alice In Wonderland Syndrome Doctors Today
Our Experience in Treating Alice in Wonderland Syndrome
At Medicover Hospitals, we understand that strange symptoms like those seen in Alice in Wonderland Syndrome can be scary, especially for children.
If you or your child starts seeing things in unusual ways or feels oddly disconnected from reality, it might just be a temporary phase, or it could need medical attention. While Alice in Wonderland Syndrome is rare, understanding it better can lead to early support and faster relief. At the right place, with the right care, even the most puzzling symptoms can be untangled.
