Charles Bonnet Syndrome

Introduction 

Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a condition in which individuals experience visual hallucinations. Despite being a common condition, CBS remains largely unknown and is often misdiagnosed as a mental illness. This article will provide an overview of Charles Bonnet Syndrome, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and tips for living with CBS. 

  

What is Charles Bonnet Syndrome? 

Charles Bonnet Syndrome is a condition that causes people to see things that are not there. These hallucinations can range from simple patterns to complex, lifelike images of people or animals. Although the hallucinations can be very vivid and detailed, people with CBS usually recognize that they are not real. One of my clients regularly saw a giant, and I mean GIANT, spider on the ceiling above her when she went to sleep. Astonishingly, she didn’t seem too bothered by this! Another saw somebody sitting in the chair at the end of her bed but she know there was nobody there.  

  

How common is CBS? 

CBS is not well known or well understood. As a result, it is difficult to estimate how many people are affected by the condition. Some estimates suggest that up to 50% of people with vision loss may experience CBS, although not all of them report their symptoms. The NHS estimates that some 100,000 people in the UK are sufferers.  

  

Symptoms of CBS 

The main symptom of CBS is visual hallucinations. These hallucinations can take many forms, such as: 

– Simple patterns or shapes 

– Geometric figures 

– Coloured lights or dots 

– Faces or animals 

– Scenes or landscapes 

 Hallucinations can occur in one or both eyes, and they can be static or dynamic. They are more common in dimly lit environments, and they can occur at any time of day. CBS hallucinations can be very vivid and realistic, and they can last for minutes, hours, or even days. 

  

Causes of Charles Bonnet Syndrome: 

The exact cause of CBS is unknown, but it is believed to be related to sensory deprivation. When the brain is deprived of visual input, it can “make up” visual images to compensate. This is similar to the way that the brain can create sounds (such as tinnitus) when the ears are deprived of sound input. 

 

CBS has also been linked to other medical conditions, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and stroke. These conditions can all cause vision loss. 

  

Diagnosis and Treatment of Charles Bonnet Syndrome: 

There is no specific test for CBS. Instead, diagnosis is based on a patient’s reported symptoms and a physical examination. Doctors may also perform tests to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing the hallucinations. 

There is no cure for CBS, but there are some things that can be done to help manage the symptoms. I find that explaining the condition to patients and reassuring them that the hallucinations are not a sign of mental illness or dementia helps reduce anxiety. Improving lighting can sometimes be a help. 

  

Conclusion 

This is a common but poorly understood condition. It is difficult for the friends and family of the sufferer to cope with. Whilst there is nothing that can be done to treat the condition there is plenty of support available from RNIB and the Macular Society 

 

At Bellamy Eyecare opticians Leicester and Irthlingborough practices we are always available to help. If you need any advice on eye care or eye tests, designer glasses, orthokeratology or anything related please feel free to get in touch.