17 February 2015
An estimated 20% of GPs are learning more about Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) from their patients, a recent survey has found.
With around 600,000 people in the UK affected by macular degeneration, which can result in visual hallucinations for 50% of sufferers, it is the leading cause of sight loss.
The survey, carried out by the Macular Society in partnership with GP magazine online, revealed that just 58% of the 194 respondents were aware of macular degeneration’s link to visual hallucinations, which is also known as CBS. Furthermore, 71% reported they have never talked about CBS with a patient.
Dr Waqaar Shah, clinical champion for the Royal College of General Practitioners and the UK Vision Strategy Eye Health Clinical Priority Project, said: “Macular degeneration is very common in older patients, and sadly, in many cases, there is no cure. However, it is important that GPs take the time to have a conversation with their patients about the impact of the eye condition on their everyday lives and that they may experience evening or night-time visual hallucinations.”
He added: “Patients will rarely volunteer this symptom for fear of being judged as having a mental health condition so it is important GPs raise awareness amongst patients so that they can receive appropriate support.”
Results from the survey reported that, just by taking part, 69% of GP respondents felt they had increased their confidence in diagnosing CBS.
With around 600,000 people in the UK affected by macular degeneration, which can result in visual hallucinations for 50% of sufferers, it is the leading cause of sight loss.
The survey, carried out by the Macular Society in partnership with GP magazine online, revealed that just 58% of the 194 respondents were aware of macular degeneration’s link to visual hallucinations, which is also known as CBS. Furthermore, 71% reported they have never talked about CBS with a patient.
Dr Waqaar Shah, clinical champion for the Royal College of General Practitioners and the UK Vision Strategy Eye Health Clinical Priority Project, said: “Macular degeneration is very common in older patients, and sadly, in many cases, there is no cure. However, it is important that GPs take the time to have a conversation with their patients about the impact of the eye condition on their everyday lives and that they may experience evening or night-time visual hallucinations.”
He added: “Patients will rarely volunteer this symptom for fear of being judged as having a mental health condition so it is important GPs raise awareness amongst patients so that they can receive appropriate support.”
Results from the survey reported that, just by taking part, 69% of GP respondents felt they had increased their confidence in diagnosing CBS.
The survey can be viewed at GP Online.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to join the discussion. Log in