Why do people with schizophrenia hear and see things that are not real?

Hearing and seeing things that are not real, also known as auditory and visual hallucinations, are psychotic symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Experts don't know the exact cause of the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, although research has revealed that an underlying chemical imbalance in the brain plays a role. Schizophrenia appears to be genetic to some degree, and close relatives are more likely to share a diagnosis of schizophrenia than the general population.

Hallucinations, such as hearing and seeing things that are not real, can be reduced or eliminated when one receives medication treatment for schizophrenia. Without treatment, hallucinations will most likely continue and potentially increase.