My Pchyatrist diagnosed me a year ago last August with Conversion Disorder(provisional).
I remember that my first episode happened in May of 2010 on a Beta Sigma Phi converntion cruise. It was during a musical show performance for Hair. The song was, "Age Of Aquarius." The performers used a lot of psycholdelic colors that were mesmorizing.
Suddenly, began to feel like a seizure was coming on, my eyes continued to stare fixated at the stage and I began to hysterically cry. Thankfully, my sorority sister's were very supportive and Deb stayed by my side.
Long story short, the ship doctor told me that I have "Conversion Disorder" without any tests or workup. He told me to leave abruptly. I felt scared and confused. But I went on without any episodes for the remainder of the cruise.
Many more symptoms such as non-epileptic seizures, mini-paralysis, major depression, loss of consciousness, syncopel episodes, and these medical terms are just a few examples that the Primary, ER, Neuro, and Pschyatrists define my episodes.
Worst scenario yet, was losing my job after 10 years with the Physicians who began treating me for this condition and, in the beginning able to deal with my tardiness and days off due to this condition. Many occasions the Physician's sent me home due to an episode.
Present emotional trauma? Yes, but I won't talk about it. But, I can say, the trauma was not happening at home or from any of my family members. Trauma many years ago? Yes, but never experienced this condition.
That is just a brief history of how this condition continues to affect my well-being. No test or procedure, so far, can accurately diagnose this condition. Medications and Pshcotherapy? Yes. Began a year ago June 2010.
After reading the stories from other's who suffer from this condition, I was hoping to learn of a radiology test that would precisely detect the area of the brain which may cause this condition. Such as depression which is caused by a low serontonin level and decreased dopamine. Unfortunately, these episodes are so debilitating that I am unable to work a job until my Pscychiatrist releases me. These episodes are very unpredictable.
I have a vey supportive family. There are days I want to scream! Because I feel that this condition is controlling my life not only emotionally, but also physically.
Thank you for reading and listening to my story. I was ready to give up because there was nobody that I knew who can relate. Please e-mail e-mail me for more feedback and coping skills.
Sincerely, Mary Ellen Knudson