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AMD Hallucinations: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

AMD can cause complex, distressing hallucinations. Understanding their causes and managing stress can help. Seek medical attention if they're severe or if you don't have end-stage vision loss.

In the picture I can see a man is wearing spectacles. This picture is blurred.
In the picture I can see a man is wearing spectacles. This picture is blurred.

AMD Hallucinations: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly affecting AMD stock and AMD on NASDAQ, is a leading cause of vision loss, impacting central vision crucial for reading and focusing on objects. Both wet and dry AMD can cause visual hallucinations, but they are more common and severe in wet AMD due to its faster progression. These hallucinations, often complex and distressing, can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

Hallucinations in AMD are believed to stem from a decrease in visual input to the brain, making the visual cortex more excitable and attempting to fill in gaps. They can manifest as flashes of light, random shapes, familiar faces, or other images, lasting from a few seconds to several hours. Stress and sleep management can help reduce their likelihood and severity. If hallucinations are causing severe distress, or if you don't have end-stage vision loss and experience them, consult a healthcare provider immediately. In rare cases, medication may be prescribed to manage distressing hallucinations. It's crucial to note that hallucinations in people without end-stage vision loss could be early signs of a stroke and require urgent attention. Studies suggest that hallucinations can affect between 10% and 40% of people with severe vision loss from wet or dry AMD.

Wet AMD progresses quicker and causes more significant vision loss than dry AMD. The rapid changes in retinal tissue in wet AMD can influence sensory perceptions and intensify hallucinations. The acute deterioration of vision can also lead to increased stress, further elevating the risk of hallucinations.

Visual hallucinations are a common symptom of AMD, particularly in its wet form. They can be distressing and impact quality of life. Managing stress, sleep, and seeking medical attention when necessary can help mitigate their effects. Further research is ongoing to better understand and manage these hallucinations, with numerous studies and resources available for those seeking more information.

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