Charles Bonnet Syndrome, named in honor of the 18th century Swiss naturalist and philosopher, is a condition in which the person experiences visual hallucinations they know aren’t real. These hallucinations are not the result of cognitive impairment and the hallucinations do not manifest with the other senses (smell, taste, touch, hearing). The visual hallucinations of CBS can range from simple patterns, shapes or light flashes to people, animals or landscapes, black and white or in vivid color. They may be of Lilliputian nature, seeing miniature people or animals. These images can be distressing, entertaining, or the person may tune them out altogether.

A few days ago, the governor of my home state allowed recreational cannabis bills to become law (albeit reluctantly). There now are 23 states and 3 US territories where recreational marijuana use is legal. This follows on the heels of the DOJ announcement that it will review how marijuana is scheduled under federal law. These developments give reason for concern that with greater availability, glaucoma patients may try to self-treat their condition with marijuana use. But eye care professionals warn against it.

One of the most important things we can do as opticians today is understand how to protect our profession. Below are things that WE ALL can do to stay informed and help our profession stay strong! Know your legislators - When you have a concern, these are the people who need to hear about it. Write or call, but let them know.