Introduction
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, multi-system illness that can affect various bodily functions, which can include vision. While some visual disturbances are commonly reported by individuals with ME/CFS, others may indicate underlying conditions requiring separate medical attention.
Problems relating to vision are quite commonly reported in a range of neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Some of these symptoms may be related to what is termed cortical hyperexcitability – in other words, parts of the brain involved with visual messages become over-sensitive. There is currently very little information in the medical literature about visual symptoms in ME/CFS but these problems are frequently discussed and may have a significant impact on the quality of everyday life.
This booklet aims to provide an overview of how ME/CFS can impact vision, provide information on potential ME/CFS-related and unrelated visual problems, and explore management strategies for specific visual symptoms.
How can ME/CFS affect your vision?
Individuals with ME/CFS often experience a range of visual symptoms. Research indicates that these symptoms are measurable and consistent across different studies. For instance, a study using the DePaul Symptom Questionnaire found that 92% of participants reported sensitivity to bright lights, 88% had difficulty focusing vision and/or attention, and 86% experienced eye pain.
Additionally, experimental studies have demonstrated that ME/CFS patients exhibit altered visual perception. For example, a study assessing pattern-related visual stress found that ME/CFS patients had significantly higher pattern glare scores compared to controls, indicating increased sensitivity to certain visual patterns.
To explain, visual perception means that it is your brain’s way of making sense of what your eyes are seeing. This is not just seeing clearly (i.e.visual acuity), as it also concerns the brain actively interpreting and organising visual information to understand shapes, colours, distances, patterns, and movement.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
We recommend that the medical information is discussed with your doctor. It is not intended to be a substitute for personalised medical advice or treatment. You should consult your doctor whenever a new symptom arises, or an existing symptom worsens. It is important to obtain medical advice that considers other causes and possible treatments. Do not assume that new or worsened symptoms are solely because of ME/CFS or Long Covid.