Green eyes are a unique trait that is found in only 2% of the world’s population. They are caused by a combination of factors including genetics, the amount of melanin in the iris, and how light reflects off of the eye.

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of green eyes.

Causes of Green Eyes

Green eyes are caused by a combination of factors. The main factor is the amount of melanin in the iris. Melanin is a pigment that is responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. The more melanin in the iris, the darker the eye color.

Green eyes have a low amount of melanin in the iris, which causes light to scatter and reflect off of the eye.

Another factor that can influence eye color is genetics. Eye color is a polygenic trait, which means that it is determined by more than one gene. The genes that influence eye color are called OCA2 and HERC2.

These genes control the production of melanin in the iris, and mutations in these genes can result in different eye colors, including green eyes.

Symptoms of Green Eyes

The main symptom of green eyes is, of course, the green color of the iris. Green eyes can vary in shade from pale green to deep emerald. In addition to the color of the iris, people with green eyes may experience sensitivity to light.

This sensitivity can cause discomfort and may require the use of sunglasses or other protective eyewear.

Diagnosis of Green Eyes

The diagnosis of green eyes is usually made visually. Eye doctors can examine the iris and determine the amount of melanin present and the shade of green.

In some cases, additional tests may be required to rule out any underlying health conditions that may be causing changes in the color of the iris.

If you notice any changes in the color of your eyes, it is important to see an eye doctor for a diagnosis. Changes in eye color could be a sign of an underlying health condition and should always be evaluated by a medical professional.

Green Eyes and Health

While green eyes are usually a harmless trait, they can be an indicator of certain health conditions. For example, people with green eyes may be more susceptible to certain types of skin cancer due to the lower amount of melanin in their skin and eyes.

This is because melanin helps to protect the skin and eyes from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Additionally, green eyes have been associated with a higher risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

This risk is thought to be due to the lower amount of melanin in the iris, which may make the eye more susceptible to damage from sunlight, blue light, and other environmental factors.

Treatment for Green Eyes

There is no treatment for green eyes, as they are a characteristic that is determined by genetics and the amount of melanin in the iris.

However, people with green eyes can take steps to protect their eyes from the harmful effects of the sun and other environmental factors. This may include wearing sunglasses or other protective eyewear, using sunscreen to protect the skin around the eyes, and avoiding prolonged exposure to bright sunlight.

If you notice any changes in the color of your eyes, or if you experience symptoms such as sensitivity to light or vision changes, it is important to see an eye doctor for an evaluation.

Early diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions can help to prevent vision loss and other complications.

Conclusion

Green eyes are a unique and beautiful trait that is caused by a combination of genetics, the amount of melanin in the iris, and other factors.

While green eyes are usually harmless, they can be an indicator of certain health conditions and may require medical attention if changes in eye color or other symptoms occur. If you have green eyes or are concerned about changes in your eye color, be sure to seek the advice of an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.