Memory Loss and Fainting: When Childhood Memories Resurface

After fainting, I became my childhood self?

Hello Doctor, I have a friend who is 18 years old.
She has been experiencing back pain, and recently it has become severe enough to cause her to faint, losing consciousness completely.
However, when she wakes up, she behaves like her younger self.
At that moment, I asked her, and she said she was ten years old.
She recognized my LINE name but did not know my actual name, and she was unaware of why she was there or what she was doing.
After about ten minutes, she said she felt tired and fell asleep again.
After a while, she woke up and returned to her original self (18 years old).
This situation has occurred at least five times in the past two days.
Which medical specialty do you recommend she see?

Xiao Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/09

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! It is recommended to first visit a neurologist.
Please observe and document any related symptoms that occur simultaneously to provide the physician with complete information.

Reply Date: 2020/11/09

More Info

It sounds like your friend is experiencing a complex and concerning situation involving memory loss and episodes of fainting. Given the symptoms you've described, including back pain severe enough to cause fainting, and the peculiar phenomenon of her reverting to a younger state of consciousness, it is crucial to approach this matter with care and urgency.

First and foremost, your friend should seek medical attention as soon as possible. The symptoms of fainting (syncope) combined with memory loss could indicate a range of underlying medical issues, including neurological disorders, psychological conditions, or even physical health problems such as dehydration, anemia, or cardiovascular issues. Given the complexity of her symptoms, it would be advisable for her to see a neurologist, who specializes in disorders of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. A thorough neurological evaluation can help determine if there are any underlying issues contributing to her fainting spells and memory disturbances.

Additionally, it may be beneficial for her to consult with a psychologist or psychiatrist, especially considering the dissociative aspect of her experiences—where she seems to revert to a childlike state of consciousness. This could be indicative of dissociative episodes, which can occur in response to trauma or extreme stress. A mental health professional can provide insights into whether her symptoms are related to psychological factors, such as anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions.

In the meantime, it is important for your friend to maintain a safe environment. If she is experiencing fainting spells, it would be wise to avoid situations where she could injure herself if she were to faint again. Encouraging her to stay hydrated, eat regular meals, and manage stress levels may also help mitigate some of her symptoms.

As for the back pain, it is essential to address this issue as well. Chronic pain can significantly impact overall well-being and may contribute to her fainting episodes. A visit to a primary care physician or an orthopedic specialist could help diagnose the cause of her back pain and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medication, or other interventions.

In summary, your friend should seek a comprehensive evaluation from both a neurologist and a mental health professional. These specialists can work together to address her physical symptoms and any psychological factors that may be contributing to her condition. Early intervention is key in managing these symptoms effectively, and with the right support and treatment, she can work towards recovery and better health.

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