What is micropsia?

Micropsia is a change in visual perception caused by swelling in the corneal areas of the eye. In general, people with micropsia perceive objects much smaller than their actual size. The condition has also been called Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, and the effect is sometimes given the fanciful name of Lilliput seen after the novel Los gulliver's travels .

Micropsia is usually a temporary condition that can be caused by several factors. Some types of epilepsy are known to cause visual distortion. The onset of migraines may be marked by micropsia. Additionally, inflammation caused by the Epstein-Barr virus has been linked to episodes of micropsia.

Children between the ages of five and ten seem particularly prone to micropsia, as well as macropsia, which makes things appear larger than they are. These symptoms, which can be extremely distressing, can cause panic or serious disorders in young children. They are almost always associated with conditions that may lead to migraine headaches at a future time. However, such perceptions must be taken seriously; In rare cases, brain swelling or tumors can cause perceptual differences.

Micropsia is a fairly common symptom of the use of both hallucinogenic and opiate-based drugs such as hydrocodone and oxycodone. Morphine and heroin in particular are associated with this condition, and can also cause other difficulties in perceiving spatial relationships. Such differences can increase the panic of drug users or those hospitalized. A calm explanation of this condition is often helpful for those taking high doses of pain relievers, so these symptoms are not completely unexpected.

In rare cases, micropsia can be psychological in origin. Someone with extreme anorexia can look at a friend and see a perfect figure, but cannot see that figure in themselves. Visual perceptions that affect body perception are often labeled as body dysmorphic disorder.

There are few studies on how to prevent micropsia in those who seem predisposed for medical reasons. When illness or migraines cause the condition, it is usually short-lived and goes untreated. Controlling migraines through medication can make micropsia shorter in duration. The knowledge that the condition may occur appears to be most helpful in relieving panic related to the extreme difference in perception.

In the case of the Epstein Barr virus leading to mononucleosis, micropsia may present as an initial symptom. This symptom may provide a reason to evaluate for mononucleosis, but specific treatment for micropsia itself is not usually carried out. The condition usually improves within a few days.

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