Your eyes can reveal a lot about your overall health. According to Diane Hilal-Campo, MD, a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Founder of Twenty/Twenty Beauty, “Our eyes can be used to detect health issues.” Routine eye exams can uncover various health problems, with Hilal-Campo noting that she has identified numerous diseases in her patients through these examinations. The eyes often provide critical insights into serious conditions that might otherwise remain hidden. Recognizing specific changes in the eyes can encourage prompt medical attention and help prevent complications.

Why Eye Health Reflects Overall Wellness

The complex network of blood vessels, nerves, and tissues in the eye mirrors the state of similar structures throughout the body. Systemic diseases like diabetes and hypertension often show signs in the eyes before affecting other parts of the body. A thorough eye exam can detect early indicators of these conditions, enabling timely interventions that may preserve vision and enhance overall health. Research suggests that about 80% of systemic diseases manifest in the eyes at some point. Given this high incidence, dismissing subtle changes in the eyes might delay important diagnoses.

4 Eye Changes That Signal a Health Issue

Certain changes in the eyes warrant a professional assessment, as they often signal underlying health issues that need medical attention.

Yellowing of the Eyes

When the whites of the eyes take on a yellow tint, medically known as scleral icterus, it may suggest liver dysfunction. This occurs when bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, builds up in the bloodstream and deposits in the sclera. Such discoloration can result from conditions like hepatitis, gallstones, or alcohol-induced liver disease. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that over 4 million cases of liver disease are reported annually in the U.S., many initially presenting through jaundice. If you notice your eyes turning yellow, a comprehensive liver function test is crucial.

A Ring Around the Eye: Arcus Senilis

A gray or white ring around the cornea, known as arcus senilis, is typically linked to aging. However, its presence in younger individuals may signal high cholesterol or lipid disorders. This ring develops due to lipid deposits and can be a warning of cardiovascular risks. Research indicates that those with early arcus senilis are at a greater risk of heart disease. If this eye change is observed, it is advisable to monitor cholesterol levels and adopt heart-healthy lifestyle practices.

Growth on the Eye or Eyelid

Unusual growths such as lumps, bumps, or lesions on the eyeball or eyelids could be benign but may also signal skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma or malignant melanoma. Persistent or rapidly changing growths require prompt examination by an ophthalmologist. Early detection of such tumors can significantly improve prognosis. Additionally, conditions like pterygium—a noncancerous growth on the eye’s surface linked to UV exposure—might affect vision and comfort, warranting medical evaluation.

Red Eyes Indicating Underlying Illness

Chronic or recurrent red eyes can stem from infections, allergies, or inflammatory conditions such as uveitis or glaucoma. In rare cases, redness may be a sign of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. A study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology revealed that nearly 15% of patients presenting with red eyes had systemic inflammatory diseases. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, as untreated underlying conditions can threaten vision or overall health.

Taking Eye Changes Seriously for Better Health Outcomes

If you observe any of these eye changes, do not dismiss them as minor issues. Scheduled eye exams should be part of routine healthcare, especially after age 40 or if you have risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure. Your eye doctor can coordinate with your primary care physician to manage detected health problems comprehensively. Awareness and timely action can safeguard both your vision and general health.