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With review and contributions from Ophthalmologist Wei Huang, MD, PhD (Huntersville)
Halloween is a time when many people claim to see ghosts. But for some people, seeing ghostly images isn’t supernatural, but is a rare physical condition called Charles Bonnet syndrome.
Charles Bonnet syndrome, or CBS, is a condition in which vision loss causes hallucinations. Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration are just some of the vision issues that can lead to CBS. These images can be as simple as shapes, flashes of light, or repeating patterns, or can be as complex as vehicles or living creatures. They can last for just a few seconds, or may remain for several hours. They often appear when a person first wakes up.
Charles Bonnet syndrome is believed to be tied to vision loss. The brain, it is believed, is continuing to try and interpret images the eyes can no longer see. CBS is not related to mental health. In fact, people with this condition are aware that they are hallucinating and can deal with it while it lasts.
If possible, treating the eye condition causing vision loss can help. For example, surgery to remove cataracts or using low vision aids can help. Finding ways to minimize conditions that aggravate Charles Bonnet syndrome can also help. For example, minimizing stress, anxiety, and social isolation can be beneficial. Also, having a conversation with the patient and their family to reassure them that this condition is not uncommon will help ease their minds, CEENTA Ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist Wei Huang, MD, PhD, said.
In some cases, medications that help with brain conditions, such as olanzapine and quetiapine, can help.
Charles Bonnet syndrome is nothing to be afraid of, but please don’t hesitate to see a CEENTA ophthalmologist if you have any questions about your vision.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor.
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