Auditory hallucinations

Auditory Hallucinations are a form of hallucination that involves perceiving sounds without auditory stimulus. A common form of auditory hallucination includes hearing one or more talking voices, and this is associated with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia or mania, and holds special significance in diagnosing these conditions.

Definition

An auditory hallucination, or paracusia, is a form of hallucination that involves perceiving sounds without auditory stimulus. These hallucinations can occur in any of the sensory modalities and are often associated with psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, mania, and major depressive disorder.

Types

Auditory hallucinations can be divided into two categories: elementary and complex. Elementary hallucinations are the perception of sounds such as hissing, whistling, an extended tone, and more. In contrast, complex hallucinations involve perception of music, people talking, or any other sound that a person may perceive in everyday life.

Causes

The causes of auditory hallucinations are varied and not completely understood. They can be associated with psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders, substance use, and certain medications. They can also occur in individuals without any psychiatric illness, particularly in older adults with hearing loss or bereavement.

Treatment

Treatment for auditory hallucinations depends on the underlying cause. In cases where they are caused by psychiatric disorders, treatment may involve antipsychotic medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other forms of psychotherapy. If the hallucinations are due to substance use, cessation of the substance is often effective.

See also

• Visual hallucination
• Olfactory hallucination
• Tactile hallucination
• Gustatory hallucination