What Your Eyes Can Tell About Your Health
The saying “the eyes are the windows to the soul” is popular. But eyes can also show a lot about your overall health. Regular eye check-ups are important, especially if you have any of these symptoms.
- Blurry Vision
- Sudden vision loss might mean blood flow problems in the eye or brain, maybe a sign of a stroke or migraine. Diabetics can get diabetic retinopathy affecting eye blood flow. If your vision blurs suddenly, see a doctor right away.
- Yellow Bumps on Eyelids
- These small, yellow fatty lumps, called “cholesterol bumps,” can warn of high cholesterol. An eye exam can confirm the cause.
- Drooping Eyelid
- Ptosis, or a drooping eyelid, can be due to nerve damage, muscle weakness, or an underlying disease. Not all cases need treatment, but severe ones may need surgery.
- Eyelid Inflammation
- Blepharitis, inflammation along the eyelid edges, can be from dandruff, rosacea, infections, allergies, or blocked oil glands. If symptoms don’t go away with good hygiene, see a doctor.
- Spots in Vision
- Eye floaters (tiny black or gray specks) are often related to age. But a sudden increase, flashing lights, or dark shadows may mean retinal detachment, which needs urgent care.
- Red, Itchy Eyes
- Allergies, dry eye syndrome, and eczema can cause itchy, irritated eyes. Find and avoid triggers, and use proper eye care to ease symptoms.
- Yellowing of the Eyes
- Jaundice, with yellow skin and eyes, shows liver problems from too much bilirubin. Causes vary from infections to a bad diet, and treatment can be lifestyle changes or medical help.
- Bulging Eyes
- Protruding eyes are often linked to hyperthyroidism, especially Graves’ disease. If bulging comes with weight loss, fatigue, or heart palpitations, get medical advice.
- Ring Around the Cornea
- The corneal arcus is a gray-white ring around the cornea from fat deposits. Common in older people, but in younger ones, it may mean very high cholesterol.
- Night Blindness
- Trouble seeing in low light can be from retinal problems, nearsightedness, or vitamin A deficiency. Symptoms include light sensitivity and difficulty focusing on distant objects at night.
If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with an eye doctor soon. Early detection can prevent more serious health problems.