Hallucinations

Hallucinations are false perceptions that can involve seeing, hearing, feeling, or smelling things that are not actually present. They are a symptom rather than a standalone condition, often associated with mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, psychosis, and severe depression.

 

However, hallucinations can also occur in neurological conditions like epilepsy, migraines, or neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. As a neuropsychiatrist, Dr. Narinder Pruthi is skilled in diagnosing the underlying causes of hallucinations and providing tailored treatment to address both their neurological and psychological aspects.

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There are various types of hallucinations, including auditory hallucinations (hearing voices or sounds), visual hallucinations (seeing things that aren't there), olfactory hallucinations (smelling odors that don’t exist), and tactile hallucinations (feeling sensations on the skin without cause). The causes of hallucinations are diverse and may range from psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, to medical issues like brain tumors, delirium, or withdrawal from drugs or alcohol.

Diagnosing hallucinations requires a thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation. Dr. Pruthi carefully assesses the patient's medical history, neurological function, and psychological state to determine whether the hallucinations are linked to a psychiatric disorder, a neurological condition, or substance use. He may also use diagnostic tools like neuroimaging (MRI or CT scans) to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain.

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Treatment for hallucinations is tailored to the underlying cause. In psychiatric cases, antipsychotic medications are often prescribed to reduce or eliminate hallucinations. If the hallucinations are linked to a neurological disorder like epilepsy or migraines, treating the underlying condition usually reduces the frequency and severity of hallucinations. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be used to help patients manage the emotional distress caused by hallucinations, offering coping strategies and ways to distinguish between reality and perception.

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Dr. Pruthi’s comprehensive approach ensures that both the neurological and psychological dimensions of hallucinations are addressed, helping patients regain a sense of control and stability in their lives.