Chelsea Coombes, 27, has a rare condition that causes her to faint whenever she experiences strong emotions. This includes laughing, crying, or even being hungover. The alarming nature of her episodes once almost led to a tragic incident in a swimming pool.
Early Signs of the Condition
Chelsea first noticed something was wrong at age 17. While laughing at her aunt’s house, she felt one side of her face drop. Confused and scared, she thought she might have suffered a stroke. However, the episodes continued, causing her to lose muscle control when she laughed.
She sought medical help, where doctors initially suggested she might have narcolepsy and cataplexy—a sudden loss of muscle tone. Unfortunately, Chelsea did not receive an official diagnosis despite undergoing several tests.
Worsening Symptoms
Over the years, Chelsea’s symptoms have intensified. What started with laughter now extends to other emotions. Crying or even being hungover can trigger her episodes. “Laughter is the main one,” she explained. “But I can have a whole day when I laugh and it doesn’t happen.”
Carrying heavy cups has also become a trigger for her fainting episodes. “Years ago, it happened to me when I was carrying cups of tea and I laughed,” Chelsea recalled.
Scary Moments
Chelsea describes her episodes as a “weak lightheadedness” accompanied by flickering eyes and involuntary muscle jerks. “I’m still conscious—it’s like my brain is drunk,” she said. This disorienting experience has led to frightening moments, especially in public.
One terrifying incident occurred while on holiday. Chelsea was in a pool when she fainted, prompting strangers to rush to her aid. “That’s been quite scary,” she stated, reflecting on how dangerous the situation was.
Impact on Daily Life
The condition has impacted various aspects of Chelsea’s life. She cannot drive due to the risk of fainting at the wheel. Moreover, she worries about future motherhood. “What would happen if I’m holding my baby and I faint?” she pondered.
Despite these challenges, Chelsea has been proactive about raising awareness for her condition. She shares her experiences on TikTok to show others that they are not alone and that it’s okay to seek help.
Seeking Diagnosis and Help
Chelsea has returned to the doctor for further testing, hoping to receive an official diagnosis and find potential treatments. Her persistence reflects her desire to understand her condition better and improve her quality of life.
Raising Awareness on Social Media
Through her TikTok channel, Chelsea aims to eliminate the stigma associated with her condition. She encourages others facing similar challenges to embrace their experiences. “You don’t have to hide,” she insists.
Her openness about the condition serves to inform and empower those who might feel isolated or ashamed. Chelsea’s journey highlights the importance of seeking medical advice and support, especially when living with rare conditions that significantly impact daily life.
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