Is my foggy brain due to an aura or a panic attack?

Question

Hi doctor,

I found out that I had an anxiety disorder about six months ago. I have always been worried about my health even when I was a kid, and I think that is the reason why I developed this disorder. The thing is that I am really concerned about my health and I always worry about the worst possibilities. A few years ago after my flight journey, I had this weird episode. I was hit by deja vu, my abdomen felt strange, and I felt scared and uneasy. It lasted for only about a few seconds, and during that time I did not felt like speaking or paying attention to anyone. After that feeling was over, I felt sleepy, and my brain was all foggy. I have these episodes from gaps, and they do not occur at any time intervals. But, they do come. Through my long search, I found these are called as auras. They either occur before a seizure or a migraine. I do not have any of those after that. I wanted to know if this is a panic attack or an aura. Please clarify.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns. From the description, it appears that you have experienced depersonalization episode.Depersonalization episode occurs in various anxiety disorders including dissociative disorders. As the name suggests, the person experiences detachment from self and feels that there is something different and finds it difficult to describe. Although you have not mentioned anything about treatment or possible treatment, I must assure you that with the advancement of science the problem is treatable to a great extent. Thank you.