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- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: November 25, 2024
At Blue Fin Vision®, our premier eye clinic on Harley Street in London, we often encounter patients wondering about the various effects of cataracts on their daily lives. One common question we receive is, “Can cataracts cause tiredness?” In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the relationship between cataracts and fatigue, as well as discuss the signs that might indicate you need cataract surgery.
Understanding Cataracts
Before delving into the connection between cataracts and tiredness, let’s briefly review what cataracts are. Cataracts occur when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to impaired vision. This natural part of ageing affects over half of all adults by age 80.
The Link Between Cataracts and Tiredness
While cataracts themselves don’t directly cause physical tiredness, they can lead to eye strain and fatigue, which may contribute to overall feelings of tiredness. Let’s explore this connection in more detail.
Can Cataracts Make You Very Tired?
The short answer is yes, cataracts can indirectly make you feel very tired. Here’s how:
- Increased Eye Strain: As cataracts progress, your eyes have to work harder to focus and see clearly. This constant effort can lead to eye fatigue, which may manifest as overall tiredness.
- Reduced Visual Clarity: The clouding of the lens can make everyday tasks more challenging, requiring more concentration and energy. This increased mental effort can contribute to feelings of exhaustion.
- Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Some research suggests that cataracts may interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle by reducing the amount of blue light that reaches the retina. This disruption can lead to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue.
- Headaches: The strain of trying to see clearly through cataracts can often lead to headaches, which can contribute to overall feelings of tiredness and discomfort.
Can Cataracts Make You Feel Unwell?
While cataracts primarily affect vision, the indirect effects can indeed make you feel unwell in various ways:
- Dizziness and Disorientation: As cataracts affect depth perception and visual clarity, you may experience moments of dizziness or disorientation, especially in unfamiliar environments.
- Anxiety and Stress: The gradual loss of vision can be a source of anxiety and stress, particularly when it begins to impact daily activities. This emotional toll can manifest as physical symptoms of unwellness.
- Nausea: In some cases, the visual distortions caused by cataracts can lead to feelings of nausea, especially when trying to focus on moving objects or during activities like reading.
- Reduced Quality of Life: As cataracts progress, they can significantly impact your ability to enjoy everyday activities, potentially leading to feelings of frustration, sadness, or general malaise.
Signs You Might Need Cataract Surgery
Recognising the signs that indicate the need for cataract surgery is crucial for maintaining your quality of life. Here are some key indicators:
- Blurred or Cloudy Vision: This is often the first and most noticeable symptom of cataracts. If you find your vision becoming increasingly hazy or blurry, it may be time to consider surgery.
- Difficulty with Night Vision: Cataracts can make it challenging to see clearly in low-light conditions. If you’re struggling with night driving or reading in dimmer light, this could be a sign.
- Sensitivity to Light: Increased glare from sunlight or artificial light sources can be a symptom of advancing cataracts.
- Frequent Changes in Prescription: If you find yourself needing more frequent changes to your glasses or contact lens prescription, cataracts might be the culprit.
- Fading or Yellowing of Colours: Cataracts can cause colours to appear less vibrant or take on a yellowish tinge.
- Double Vision: Some cataract patients experience double vision in the affected eye.
- Impact on Daily Activities: When cataracts begin to interfere with your ability to perform everyday tasks like reading, watching television, or driving, it’s time to consider surgery.
- Persistent Eye Strain and Fatigue: If you’re experiencing ongoing eye strain and fatigue despite adequate rest, cataracts might be the underlying cause.
The Importance of Regular Eye Examinations
Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of cataracts. At Blue Fin Vision®, we recommend:
- Annual comprehensive eye exams for adults over 40
- More frequent exams if you have risk factors for cataracts or other eye conditions
Early detection allows for timely intervention, potentially slowing the progression of cataracts and preserving your vision for longer.
Cataract Surgery: A Life-Changing Solution
If you’re experiencing symptoms of cataracts that are impacting your daily life, cataract surgery might be the solution you need. This safe and effective procedure involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Benefits of Cataract Surgery:
- Improved visual clarity
- Enhanced colour perception
- Reduced glare and light sensitivity
- Improved night vision
- Potential reduction in eye strain and fatigue
At Blue Fin Vision®, our expert ophthalmologists use state-of-the-art technology to perform cataract surgery with precision and care. We offer a range of IOL options to suit your individual needs and lifestyle.
Living with Cataracts: Tips for Managing Symptoms
If you’re not quite ready for surgery or are in the early stages of cataract development, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:
- Optimise Your Lighting: Use brighter lights for reading and other close-up tasks.
- Use Magnifying Devices: Magnifying glasses can help with detailed work or reading.
- Wear Anti-Glare Sunglasses: These can help reduce glare and improve comfort in bright environments.
- Update Your Prescription: Regular updates to your glasses or contact lens prescription can help compensate for vision changes.
- Practice Eye Exercises: Simple eye exercises can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.
- Take Regular Breaks: When engaging in visually demanding tasks, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with regular exercise, can support overall eye health.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Eye Health
While cataracts can indeed contribute to feelings of tiredness and general unwellness, it’s important to remember that effective treatments are available. At Blue Fin Vision®, our London eye clinic is committed to providing exceptional care and advanced treatment options for cataract patients.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of cataracts or have concerns about your eye health, we encourage you to book an appointment at our Harley Street clinic. Our team of expert ophthalmologists is here to guide you through every step of your eye care journey, from initial consultation to post-operative care.
Don’t let cataracts cloud your vision or drain your energy. Contact Blue Fin Vision® today and take the first step towards clearer, brighter vision and renewed vitality.
