What effect can hallucinations have?

Visual hallucinations are a normal response the brain has to the loss of vision.

However, as Charles Bonnet syndrome isn't widely known, many people worry about what it means and fear they may be developing a serious mental illness or dementia.

It can also cause practical problems. People who see complex hallucinations may find it difficult to get around.

Streets and rooms may be distorted, and brickwork or fencing may appear directly in front of you, making it difficult to judge exactly where you are and whether you can walk straight ahead.

Some people can overcome this problem by having good knowledge of their surroundings.

Complex hallucinations can be unsettling. Although the visions may not be frightening, it can be disturbing to suddenly see strangers in your home or garden.

For most people, the hallucinations will improve over time, with episodes becoming shorter and less frequent. Recent evidence suggests most people will still have occasional hallucinations five years or more after they first started.

If the hallucinations do stop entirely, there's always a chance they'll reappear after a further decline in vision.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018