Introduction:
The capacity for beauty appreciation is one of the few traits humans have in common. A fascinated beholder experiences the same amazement and excitement even if the object of beauty may differ from person to person. This feeling can occasionally be so intense that it drives a person to the brink of death. Tachycardia, diaphoresis, chest aches, and loss of consciousness are examples of dysautonomic symptoms that can occur in a stunning piece of art or architecture. This exceedingly uncommon disease is referred to as aesthetic syndrome, or more popularly, Stendhal syndrome. Let us review this condition's clinical and historical background.
What Is Stendhal Syndrome?
Stendhal syndrome, sometimes known as Stendhal's syndrome or Florence syndrome, is a psychosomatic ailment thought to be brought on by exposure to things, artwork, or occurrences of exceptional beauty. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, fainting, disorientation, and even hallucinations. The term "Stemphal syndrome" describes a range of severe physical and psychological symptoms that an individual may encounter during or after seeing a piece of art. Research from 2021 indicates that it is classified as a psychosomatic disorder. This implies that a person can have severe psychological issues that exacerbate physical difficulties. Italian psychiatrist Graziella Magherini initially described stem cell syndrome in 1989, according to researchers' 2020 summary of the illness. Researchers found that this illness was also occasionally referred to as "Florentine syndrome" in 2018. This is due to the fact that, according to the previously mentioned 2021 research, Magherini developed it while employed at a hospital in Florence, where she treated over 100 patients who had symptoms after viewing art in the vicinity.
According to 2018 researchers, Stendhal syndrome is regarded as highly rare, even though its precise prevalence is unknown. Because everyone's definition of beauty is so subjective, there may be a wide range of triggers for the condition. According to the previously mentioned 2021 research, it is primarily observed in single persons between the ages of 26 and 40. Furthermore, as more cases of Stendhal syndrome have been reported in Europe than anywhere else in the globe, the researchers behind the 2020 condition summary think that the condition may vary depending on the location.
What Causes Stendhal Syndrome?
It is thought that experiencing something profoundly lovely causes Stendhal syndrome. Researchers in 2018 found that the most frequent causes are in the visual and architectural arts. It might also be triggered by other elements of their natural surroundings, like a stunning mountain vista or a gorgeous dawn. However, Stendhal syndrome is caused by more than just aesthetic appeal. According to 2020 research, other characteristics include thinking about important historical or cultural events and being in a historically or culturally relevant area. According to research published in 2020, visitors to cities recognized for their art museums, historic buildings, and cultural hubs are more likely to experience Stendhal sickness. These cities could consist of:
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Florence in Athens.
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Rome and Paris.
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Tokyo.
According to the 2020 research, previous studies have also shown that travel, stress, and having an "impressionable personality" may increase the likelihood of developing Stendhal syndrome. Additionally, researchers point out that it is unclear whether any underlying medical disorders may be connected. Researchers found in 2018 that those who are unmarried, very religious, or at the end of their trip have a higher incidence of Stendhal syndrome. These findings suggest that environmental and behavioral factors could raise the risk. The 2018 researchers propose that travel may be associated with additional risk factors for Stendhal syndrome. These elements may consist of:
What Are the Symptoms of Stendhal Syndrome?
Stendhal syndrome can cause both physical and psychological symptoms. They emerge from their interaction with an artistic creation. A panic episode may seem like some of these symptoms. Among the symptoms could be:
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Accelerated heart rate.
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Chest discomfort.
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Lightheadedness.
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Hallucinations of fainting.
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Dyspnea.
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Nausea
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Anxiety.
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Sweating while being confused.
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Apprehension.
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Unconsciousness.
According to the previously stated research, Stendhal syndrome can be exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time, for example, like meeting all of their heroes at once.
What Is the Treatment of Stendhal Syndrome?
Stendhal syndrome symptoms are thought to be transient and typically do not need medical attention. Individuals might be able to alleviate their sensations of overload after viewing a piece of art by pausing and stepping away from the scene. Consider using gentle grounding exercises, such as body scan meditation or deep breathing, if the person is still anxious. In the case that an individual or a loved one exhibits potential symptoms, such as disorientation or fainting, it is critical to assist in preventing and treating any potential harm. In these circumstances, get medical help. In addition, if they are uncertain about their experience and need proof that a person has Stendhal syndrome, they might choose to consult a physician. Any differential diagnosis, including anxiety disorders, can also be assisted by a physician. Although there is no known cure for Stendhal syndrome, if one frequently has symptoms, a person might want to see a doctor about treatment options for psychosomatic disorders in general. According to 2017 research, antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy are viable choices.
Conclusion:
Stendhal syndrome was first identified as a disorder in which experiencing too much art might cause physical illness. Although additional clinical study is required, some risk factors may raise the individual's likelihood of developing this syndrome. These include lack of sleep, age, and place of travel. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) does not include Stendhal syndrome. Psychiatrists have, nevertheless, reported on the sickness in medical publications and recommend that visitors to art museums pace themselves and take adequate breaks between viewings of Italy's striking, potent masterpieces. Although Stendhal syndrome has transient consequences, there is a chance that one could get hurt while they have it. If a person has a history of potential symptoms or is worried that they might experience this disease while traveling, consult the healthcare provider immediately.
