Can cataracts cause headaches?

Cataracts are a common eye condition, particularly among older adults. They occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision. While cataracts are well-known for causing visual impairment, many people wonder if they can also cause headaches. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between cataracts and headaches, and discuss what you can do if you’re experiencing these symptoms.

What are cataracts?

Cataracts develop when proteins in the lens of the eye clump together, creating cloudy areas. This cloudiness can interfere with vision, making it difficult to see clearly. The most common symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty seeing at night, and seeing halos around lights. As cataracts progress, they can significantly impair daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognising faces.

How cataracts affect vision

Cataracts affect the eye’s ability to focus light properly on the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This improper focus can cause images to appear blurred or dim. Over time, as the cataract becomes denser, it can distort vision further, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks.

Can cataracts cause headaches?

Yes, cataracts can cause headaches. However, the headaches are not directly caused by the cataract itself, but rather by the strain and effort required to see clearly despite the visual impairment. Here are a few ways cataracts can lead to headaches:

1. Eye strain

When your vision is blurry due to cataracts, you may squint or strain your eyes to see more clearly. This constant effort can lead to eye strain, which is a common cause of headaches. Eye strain can occur when your eyes work harder than usual, especially when trying to focus on small print or detailed objects.

2. Increased sensitivity to light

Cataracts can cause increased sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia. Bright lights can become uncomfortable and even painful, leading to squinting and eye strain. This sensitivity can trigger headaches, particularly in environments with harsh lighting.

3. Difficulty with contrast

Cataracts can reduce the contrast in your vision, making it harder to distinguish between different shades and colours. This lack of contrast can cause your eyes to work harder, contributing to fatigue and headaches.

4. Changes in prescription

As cataracts progress, your vision may fluctuate, leading to frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription. Wearing incorrect prescriptions can strain your eyes and cause headaches as your brain struggles to process unclear images.

Managing headaches caused by cataracts

If you suspect that your headaches are related to cataracts, there are several steps you can take to manage them:

1. Get a comprehensive eye examination

If you’re experiencing frequent headaches and have symptoms of cataracts, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. They can diagnose the presence and severity of cataracts and discuss potential treatment options.

2. Update your prescription

Regularly updating your glasses or contact lens prescription can help reduce eye strain and headaches. Your eye care provider can recommend the best prescription for your current vision needs.

3. Use proper lighting

Ensure that your living and working spaces are well-lit with adequate, non-glare lighting. This can help reduce the strain on your eyes and minimise headaches.

4. Wear sunglasses

If you’re sensitive to light, wearing sunglasses can help reduce discomfort and prevent headaches. Choose sunglasses with UV protection and polarised lenses for the best results.

5. Consider cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to remove cataracts and restore clear vision. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. This can alleviate many of the symptoms associated with cataracts, including headaches caused by eye strain.

When to consider cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is typically recommended when cataracts begin to significantly impair your daily activities and quality of life. If you find that your vision problems are interfering with tasks like reading, driving, or watching TV, it may be time to discuss surgery with your eye care provider. The decision to undergo cataract surgery is personal and should be based on your individual needs and lifestyle.

While cataracts themselves do not directly cause headaches, the visual impairment they create can lead to eye strain, sensitivity to light, and other issues that contribute to headaches. Managing these symptoms with proper eye care, updated prescriptions, and, in some cases, cataract surgery can help alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of cataracts and related headaches, take a suitability self-test today. Find out if cataract surgery is right for you and take the first step towards clearer vision and a headache-free life.