The eyes are called the windows to the soul, but they can also serve as a mirror to one’s overall health. Many serious diseases, including dementia, diabetes, and even cancer, can show early warning signs through subtle changes in the eyes. Regular eye exams can help detect these conditions before other symptoms appear, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment. Here’s a look at some major health issues that can be identified through eye changes.
Vision changes could signal Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers have found that visual issues may be one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s disease. The toxic amyloid plaques associated with the disease can first affect parts of the brain responsible for vision before impacting memory. This means that changes in contrast sensitivity, difficulty distinguishing between colours (especially blue and green), and trouble with eye movement control may indicate early cognitive decline. An eye test could potentially reveal these deficits before standard memory tests do.
Red spots in the eyes may indicate diabetes
Diabetes is a widespread disease, and one of its early warning signs is red spots in the eyes. These red dots are caused by tiny blood vessels in the retina bursting due to high blood sugar levels, a condition known as diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, this can lead to vision loss or even blindness. Regular eye check-ups can help detect diabetes before other symptoms develop.
Dry eyes could be linked to autoimmune diseases
Persistent dry eyes may be more than just a minor irritation. Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects moisture-producing glands, is a common cause of chronic dry eyes. Other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause dry, irritated eyes. If someone experiences frequent dryness despite using eye drops, they may need further evaluation for an underlying autoimmune condition.
High blood pressure can cause blurry vision
Blurry vision is often dismissed as an ordinary eye issue, but it can sometimes indicate dangerously high blood pressure. Hypertension can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to blurred vision and, in severe cases, permanent vision loss. If blurry vision occurs suddenly, it may be a sign of a hypertensive crisis requiring immediate medical attention.
Sudden specks or flashes might be a retinal tear
Seeing sudden specks, floaters, or flashes of light can be a warning sign of a torn retina. If left untreated, this can progress to a detached retina, which may result in permanent vision loss. While floaters can appear naturally with age, an abrupt increase in their number or size, especially with accompanying shadows or loss of peripheral vision, should be checked immediately.
White or yellow rings around the eyes could indicate high cholesterol
A white ring around the cornea, medically known as arcus senilis, can be a sign of high cholesterol levels. Yellowish bumps on the eyelids, called xanthelasma, are another indication of cholesterol buildup. While these symptoms may not always be harmful, they can suggest an increased risk of heart disease and should prompt a cholesterol check.
These rare cancer cells originate and multiply in your eyes. In adults, the most common type of primary eye tumour is ocular melanoma
Eye doctors can detect some cancers early
Some cancers can first be detected through an eye exam. Ocular melanomaa rare but serious cancer, may not be visible externally but can be spotted by an eye doctor during a routine examination. Unexplained eye pressure or pain could, in rare cases, indicate a brain tumour. Regular eye check-ups can help detect these conditions before they become life-threatening.
Bloodshot eyes may have many underlying causes
While bloodshot eyes are often harmless and caused by minor irritations like allergies or lack of sleep, they can also be a sign of underlying infections, high blood pressure, or even fungal conditions. If redness persists despite rest and hydration, it’s advisable to consult a doctor to rule out more serious health concerns.
