What are Common Causes of Fatigue and Blurred Vision?

Several conditions can result in fatigue and blurred vision. The most serious of these are anemia, lupus, and Sjogren's syndrome. It is important to remember that these symptoms can occur independent of these medical conditions. People suffering from these symptoms should visit a health-care provider for a diagnosis.

Anemia is the most common blood disorder in the US. It usually occurs as a symptom of other diseases or conditions. A patient is diagnosed with anemia when his or her red blood cell count is much lower than normal.

Blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin that carries oxygen throughout the body. When the bloodstream does not contain enough red blood cells, oxygen cannot circulate through the body. When organs do not get enough oxygen, they cannot work as efficiently. Most of the symptoms of anemia are caused by this lack of oxygen.

In addition to fatigue and blurred vision, symptoms of anemia include low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate. The lack of oxygen may also cause fainting or feelings of vertigo, which can lead to falls. If left untreated, anemia can lead to severe complications, such as stroke, heart attack, and coma.

Anemia is most common in people who have suffered trauma, hemorrhage, or other conditions that lead to extreme blood loss. It can also be caused by nutritional deficiencies and deficiencies in nutrient absorption. Doctors diagnose anemia using a blood test.

Another condition that can cause tiredness and blurred vision is lupus. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body attacks healthy tissues and organs as though they were foreign threats. Lupus can range from mild to severe and is sometimes fatal, especially if it goes untreated.

Symptoms of lupus are usually caused by inflammation. They often include fatigue and blurred vision, fever, and rashes. Lupus may also cause anemia in some people.

This condition most often appears in young adulthood through middle age. Women, people with a family history of autoimmune disorders, and those of Hispanic or African American descent are most likely to develop lupus. There is no cure for lupus, and no specific tests exist to diagnose it. Doctors will not diagnose a patient with lupus until other conditions have been ruled out.

Sjorgen's syndrome can cause fatigue and blurred vision. This autoimmune disorder attacks glands in the body that produce mucus and moisture. The cause of Sjorgen's syndrome is unknown, although it may result from a viral or bacterial infection.

Swelling is the earliest symptom of Sjorgen's syndrome. It is followed by dryness of the eyes, mouth, and skin. Doctors may take a biopsy of the salivary gland to diagnose this condition.