The eyes offer an incredible glimpse into a person’s overall health. In fact, they are often referred to as “windows to the soul”.

This is because many diseases and illnesses that affect the body also produce telltale symptoms in the eyes. Here are some of the ocular signs that can be indicative of major medical problems.

Diabetes

One of the most common diseases that can affect the eyes is diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms include blurred vision, floaters, and even loss of vision.

If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to total blindness.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can put undue pressure on the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, leading to hypertensive retinopathy. This condition can cause blood vessels to narrow, which can result in blurry vision or even blindness.

Other visual symptoms may include floaters, spots, or flashing lights in the visual field.

Autoimmune Diseases

Chronic inflammatory diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis can cause a variety of eye problems.

For example, lupus can cause uveitis, an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, which can lead to blurred vision, pain, and sensitivity to light. Multiple sclerosis can cause optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve, which can cause vision problems or even blindness.

Thyroid Disorders

Disorders of the thyroid gland can also manifest in ocular symptoms. For example, Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, can cause bulging eyes, double vision, or difficulty moving the eyes.

This condition is also known as exophthalmos.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can also affect the eyes. Ocular melanoma is rare but can be deadly. Symptoms include changes in the appearance of the eye, such as a bulging or a dark spot on the iris.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to successful treatment and survival.

Brain Tumors

Tumors in the brain can also cause eye problems, especially if they are located near the visual pathways. Symptoms may include vision loss, double vision, or changes in pupil size or reactivity.

Other neurological symptoms, such as headaches or seizures, may also be present.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis, can also have ocular symptoms. These symptoms can include blurry vision, changes in vision, and sudden vision loss.

In some cases, the presence of these symptoms may indicate a need for urgent medical attention.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic liver disease that can cause inflammation and scarring of the liver.

It can also produce ocular symptoms such as keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea that can cause pain and light sensitivity, or uveitis, an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye that can cause blurry vision, pain, and sensitivity to light.

Conclusion

The eyes are a vital tool in the early detection and diagnosis of many major medical problems. Certain ocular symptoms should never be ignored, as they may indicate a significant underlying medical condition.

If you experience any changes in vision or other ocular symptoms, be sure to contact your healthcare provider right away.