Charles Bonnet syndrome
Introduction
In Charles Bonnet syndrome, a person whose vision has started to deteriorate sees thingsthat aren't real (hallucinations).
The Hallucinations may be simple patterns, or detailed images of events, people or places. They're only visual and don't involve hearing things or any other sensations.
It's important to be aware that hallucinations associated with Charles Bonnet syndrome are caused by failing eyesight. They're not caused by a mental health problem or dementia .
People with Charles Bonnet syndrome are usually aware that the visions aren't real, even if they're vivid.
Always see your GPif you're experiencing hallucinations so they can investigatethe cause.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
Introduction
Find out what Charles Bonnet syndrome is, who it affects, what causes it, how to manage it, plus the help and support available.
Types of hallucination
There are two main types of hallucination that people with Charles Bonnet syndrome tendto experience. They may see: simple repeated patterns complex images of people, objects or landscapes Simple
Who's affected and why?
Charles Bonnet syndrome affects people who've lost most or all of their eyesight. It's more likely to occur if vision loss affects both eyes. According to the Macular Society, up to half of all peop
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 dev
DiagnosingCharles Bonnet syndrome
There isn't a specific test for Charles Bonnet syndrome. Doctors diagnose it by: talking to the person about their symptoms taking a detailed medical history in some cases, carrying out tests toru
Treating Charles Bonnet syndrome
There's currently no cure for Charles Bonnet syndrome. Simply understanding that the hallucinations are a normal consequence of vision loss, rather than a mental health problem,can be very reassuring
Help and support
If you have Charles Bonnet syndrome, talking about your hallucinations and how they make you feel may help you cope better. You could try talking to your family, friends, GP, optician, or ophthalmolog
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