Our eyes are windows into our body’s internal systems. Often, physical symptoms that present in our eyes are indicative of underlying health problems. By recognizing these symptoms, we can seek out treatment and improve our quality of life.

In this visual guide, we will explore common eye symptoms and the diseases they may indicate.

Red or Bloodshot Eyes

Red or bloodshot eyes often indicate an underlying issue with your blood vessels. This symptom may occur for a variety of reasons, including:.

Allergies
Eye infections
Eye fatigue
Swimming in chlorinated water
Exposure to smoke or other irritants
Dry eye syndrome
Conjunctivitis

Red eyes can also be a symptom of underlying systemic diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and lupus.

Yellowing of the Whites of the Eyes

If the whites of your eyes appear yellow, it may indicate a build-up of bilirubin. Bilirubin is produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells.

If bilirubin is not properly processed and removed from the body, it can build up and cause a condition called jaundice. Jaundice is often an indication of a liver problem, such as:.

Hepatitis
Cirrhosis
Gallstones
Biliary stricture or obstruction

In rare cases, yellowing of the eyes may also be a symptom of an underlying blood disorder or cancer.

Blurred Vision

Blurred vision is the inability to see clearly or sharply. It may affect one or both eyes, and it may occur gradually or suddenly. There are many factors that can cause blurred vision, including:.

Refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
Age-related macular degeneration
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Diabetic retinopathy
Retinal detachment
Stroke or brain injury
Multiple sclerosis

If you are experiencing blurred vision, it is important to see an eye doctor for an examination to determine the underlying cause of the problem.

Double Vision

Double vision is the perception of two images of a single object. It can occur in one or both eyes, and it can be temporary or permanent. Some common causes of double vision include:.

Eye muscle problems, such as strabismus or a misaligned eye
Refractive errors, such as astigmatism
Cataracts
Corneal problems
Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis
Head injury
Brain tumor or brain swelling

Double vision can be a symptom of a serious underlying health problem. If you are experiencing double vision, seek medical attention right away.

Eye Pain or Pressure

Eye pain or pressure is a common symptom that may occur for a variety of reasons. Some common causes of eye pain or pressure include:.

Sinusitis or other sinus problems
Eye infections
Glaucoma
Migraines
Conjunctivitis
Corneal abrasion or injury
Foreign objects in the eye

Eye pain or pressure can also be a symptom of an underlying systemic disease, such as temporal arteritis, an inflammatory condition that can cause vision loss if left untreated.

Light Sensitivity

Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is a condition in which bright light causes discomfort or pain in the eyes. It may occur for a variety of reasons, including:.

Migraines
Eye infections
Corneal abrasion or injury
Uveitis, an inflammatory condition of the eye
Conjunctivitis
Contact lens irritation or infection

Light sensitivity may also be a symptom of systemic diseases, such as Lyme disease, lupus, or meningitis.

Dry Eyes

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears to maintain proper lubrication. It can cause discomfort and irritation, and it may occur for a variety of reasons, including:.

Aging
Hormonal changes
Medications
Autoimmune diseases, such as Sjogren’s syndrome
Eye surgery, such as LASIK
Environmental factors, such as wind, smoke, or dry air

If left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to corneal damage and vision problems. If you are experiencing dry eyes, talk to your eye doctor about treatment options.

Protrusion of the Eye

Protrusion of the eye, or bulging eyes, can occur for a variety of reasons, including:.

Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland
Orbital cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the eye socket
Orbital tumors
Orbital pseudotumor, an inflammatory condition
Thyroid eye disease

Bulging eyes can cause problems with vision and eye movement, and they may be a symptom of a serious underlying condition. If you are experiencing protrusion of the eye, seek medical attention right away.

Dark Circles Around the Eyes

Dark circles around the eyes are a common cosmetic concern, but they may also indicate an underlying health problem. Some common causes of dark circles around the eyes include:.

Allergies
Eczema
Hay fever
Sleep apnea
Anemia
Dehydration

In rare cases, dark circles around the eyes may be a symptom of a thyroid problem or a vitamin deficiency.

Conclusion

Our eyes are complex structures that can provide valuable insight into our overall health. Recognizing the symptoms that may indicate an underlying health problem is important for maintaining good eye health and overall well-being.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this visual guide, seek medical attention right away.