A group of severe physical and mental symptoms known as Stendhal syndrome can occur while or after viewing an artwork.
Research from 2021 identifies it as a psychosomatic illness. You could therefore have severe psychological problems that also result in physical discomfort.
A person is said to experience Stendhal syndrome after seeing something incredibly lovely.
According to researchers in 2018, the visual and architectural arts are the most frequent causes. It might also be triggered by other elements of your natural environment, like a stunning sunrise or an amazing mountain view.
However, Stendhal syndrome isn't solely brought on by aesthetic appeal or works of art. According to research from 2020, additional influences include being in a historically or culturally significant setting and reflecting on important historical events.
According to a 2020 study, travelers to cities with well-known art institutions, historic buildings, and cultural hubs are more likely to have Stendhal syndrome.
These cities could consist of:
- Athens
- Florence
- Paris
- Rome
- Tokyo
The 2020 study cited earlier studies that suggested stress and travel, together with an "impressionable personality," might be risk factors for developing Stendhal syndrome. Additionally, researchers point out that it's unclear whether having underlying diseases might be connected.
The researchers in 2018 noted a higher occurrence of Stendhal syndrome in those who are unmarried, intensely religious, or towards the end of a journey. Other environmental and lifestyle factors may also enhance your risk.
Travel-related factors could also be additional Stendhal syndrome risk factors, according to 2018 research.
These elements may consist of:
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Jet lag
- Hunger
- Dehydration
- Sun exposure
Stendhal syndrome can cause both mental and physical symptoms. They appear after viewing a piece of art. Some of these signs and symptoms resemble panic attacks.
Some signs could be:
- Rapid heart rate
- Chest pains
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Loss of consciousness
The exciting yet overwhelming nature of Stendhal syndrome may be like meeting all of your heroes at once, according to the research from 2021 that was previously cited.
Stendhal syndrome symptoms are thought to be transient and typically don't need any kind of medical attention.
By taking a break and leaving the location, you might be able to alleviate your symptoms if you're feeling overstimulated after viewing a piece of art. Consider using some gentle grounding exercises, such as body scan meditation or deep breathing, if you're still feeling anxious.
It's crucial to assist avoid and address injuries that can occur if you or a loved one exhibits potential symptoms, such as confusion or fainting. In such circumstances, get medical help.
If you're worried about your experience or want a doctor's opinion on whether you actually had Stendhal syndrome, you might also want to make an appointment. Any differential diagnosis, such as anxiety disorders, can also be helped by a doctor.
Stendhal syndrome does not have a well-established treatment, but if you frequently suffer symptoms, you might think about consulting a physician about treatment for psychosomatic diseases more generally.
According to research from 2017, potential treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy and medications.
According to the already cited 2020 study, Stendhal syndrome is thought to be uncommon, but once you have experienced it, you may have a higher probability of experiencing it once more in the future, particularly if you come across an emotionally engaging work of art.
To assist lower your risk of developing Stendhal syndrome, you could think about getting enough rest before visiting a place where you might be exposed to ancient artwork. Anyone traveling with you should be informed of your potential need for assistance as well as the best way to provide it.
Although symptoms like disorientation or dizziness could harm someone, Stendhal syndrome is not thought to be fatal.
One person did experience a heart attack in 2018 while viewing historical art in Florence, according to a 2020 study. To better understand the causes and implications of Stendhal syndrome, further research is still required. However, it is unclear if this was caused by Stendhal syndrome or unrelated variables.
If you suffer signs of this uncommon syndrome frequently or whenever you come across what you regard to be a beautiful piece of art, you might think about discussing treatment options with a medical professional.
The disease known as Stendhal syndrome, which can cause you to feel ill after an overpowering artistic encounter, was originally identified in the late 1980s.
There has to be more clinical study, although some risk factors may raise your likelihood of developing this illness. Age, the place of travel, and lack of sleep are a few of these.
Stendhal syndrome can cause transitory side effects, but it can potentially lead to physical harm. If you are worried that you might experience this disease while traveling, especially if you have a history of potential symptoms, speak with your doctor.
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