Published on: 7/4/2025
What are the underlying causes of auditory hallucinations?
Auditory hallucinations can happen due to various reasons, including certain medications and conditions affecting the brain such as schizophrenia and certain infections, dementias, and medications or substances (such as alcohol).
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Explanation
Auditory hallucinations are when someone hears voices or sounds that aren't there. There are various reasons why someone can experience auditory hallucinations. Here are some examples:
1. Health Conditions Affecting the Brain:
- Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are well-known causes. However, not all people with auditory hallucinations have schizophrenia.
- Some dementias (such as Parkinson disease) can also cause auditory hallucinations in some people.
2. Substances or Medications:
- Alcohol and marijuana are examples of substances that can cause hallucinations in some people.
- Examples of prescription medication that can cause hallucinations in some people include corticosteroids (such as prednisone) and some pain medications.
If you or someone you know is experiencing auditory hallucinations, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider. For additional support, you can also visit 988lifeline.org.
(References)
- Waters F, Blom JD, Jardri R, Hugdahl K, & Sommer IEC. (2018). Auditory hallucinations, not necessarily a hallmark of .... Psychological medicine, 28826411.
- Pierre JM. (2010). Hallucinations in nonpsychotic disorders: toward a .... Harvard review of psychiatry, 20047459.
- Ross CA. (2020). Voices: Are They Dissociative or Psychotic?. The Journal of nervous and mental disease, 32868688.
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