Isakower phenomenon

In this state a complex combination of sensations is experienced, principally of hands, skin and mouth. There may be an impression of giddiness, floating or sinking. Parts of the body, and the outside world, may seem to blend together. An indefinite, round, shadowy thing seems to come closer and more gigantic until it threatens to crush the individual before receding and shrinking to nothing. There is a murmuring or rustling sound and there may be the impression of something soft and yielding in the mouth and yet outside. The hands may feel swollen or crumpled, the mouth and skin dry and abrasive. The phenomenon is associated with hypnagogic states (falling asleep) but also with waking, with frequent drug abuse and as part of epileptic auras or preceding déjà vu. The experience is not regarded as real by the person experiencing it.