Learning About Vision Loss and Hallucinations After Stroke
A visual hallucination is when you see something that isn’t really there. Some people have visual hallucinations after a loss of vision or visual field loss from various eye conditions like macular degeneration or glaucoma, or even from a stroke. This is called Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS).
Some people may see patterns, flowers, animals, or people that aren’t real. These hallucinations usually go away. Speak to your healthcare provider if you think you are having visual hallucinations.
Strategies for coping with visual hallucinations
There are no specific treatments for visual hallucinations, but there are various strategies which can help you cope.
These include:
- If you are sitting, try standing up and moving around.
- Close and open your eyes.
- Switch a light on and off.
- Look at the hallucination or walk away from it.
- Understand the images are not real.
Talk to others, including your healthcare provider, about your experiences. Early recognition and support will reduce any concerns. For most people, the condition improves over time.
To see this information online and learn more, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca/health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_vision_loss_hallucin_stroke_inst.
Related to vision loss and hallucinations after stroke
For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.
Current as of: March 19, 2026
Author: Provincial EyeSee After Stroke Working Group, Acute Care Alberta
This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.
