Your eyes are an essential part of your body. They are not only the windows to your soul but also the important organs of sight. They are the first to detect light and send signals to the brain to interpret visual information.

However, did you know that your eyes can also reveal a lot about your overall health? Unusual changes in your eyes can be a sign of an underlying health problem that needs to be addressed.

Yellow Eyes

Yellowing of the eyes is a condition commonly known as jaundice. This happens when bilirubin, a yellow substance, builds up in the blood and tissues. Bilirubin is produced when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver removes bilirubin from the body.

However, when the liver is unable to eliminate bilirubin, it accumulates in different parts of the body, including the eyes, causing a yellow discoloration.

Jaundice can be an indication of various underlying health conditions such as:.

Liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or cancer
Bile duct obstruction
Blood disorders such as hemolytic anemia or sickle cell anemia

Red or Bloodshot Eyes

Red or bloodshot eyes happen when the tiny blood vessels on the surface of the eye expand, and blood leaks into the whites of the eyes. This can make the eyes appear reddish or pinkish.

In most cases, bloodshot eyes are not serious and can be treated easily. Common causes of red eyes include:.

Allergies
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Eye fatigue
Exposure to irritants such as smoke, wind, or chlorine
Injury or trauma to the eye

However, in some cases, red eyes can be a sign of an underlying health problem. These include:.

Eye infections such as uveitis or iritis
Glaucoma
High blood pressure
Rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes happen when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly from the surface of the eye. This can cause the eyes to become dry, itchy, and uncomfortable.

While dry eyes can be a result of environmental factors like dry air or computer use, it can also be caused by an underlying health problem such as:.

Sjogren’s syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
Diabetes
Thyroid problems

If left untreated, dry eyes can lead to other eye problems such as eye infections and corneal ulcers. So, if you’re experiencing dry eyes frequently, it’s important to see an eye doctor for an evaluation.

Oversized Pupils

Have you noticed your pupils are getting larger than usual? If yes, then you might be experiencing enlarged pupils or mydriasis. Mydriasis can be caused by various factors, including exposure to certain drugs or medications.

However, it can also be an indication of a more serious underlying health condition such as:.

Brain injury or tumor
Stroke
Meningitis
Glaucoma

Enlarged pupils can also be a sign of other eye conditions such as uveitis or Horner’s syndrome.

Therefore, if you’re experiencing oversized pupils, it’s crucial to get a comprehensive eye exam as soon as possible to rule out any severe health problems.

Double Vision

Double vision, also known as diplopia, is a condition in which you see two images of the same object instead of one. This can occur due to various reasons, such as muscle imbalance or neurological problems.

The causes of double vision can range from minor to severe, and some of them include:.

Corneal problems
Convergence insufficiency
Myasthenia gravis
Brain aneurysm or tumor
Stroke

If you’re experiencing double vision, it’s important to see an eye doctor to rule out any underlying health problems. Based on the cause of double vision, your doctor may recommend medications, vision therapy, or surgery.

Eye Floaters

Eye floaters are tiny specks, cobwebs, or other spots that float around in your visual field. They are usually harmless and are a normal part process of aging.

However, if you notice sudden onset of eye floaters or a change in the number or appearance of floaters, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition such as:.

Retinal detachment
Vitreous hemorrhage
Retinal tear
Migraine headaches

Therefore, if you have eye floaters with associated flashes of light or sudden vision loss, you must see an eye doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent vision loss.

Bulging Eyes

Bulging or protruding eyes happen when the eyes are pushed forward from their normal position. This can cause the whites of your eyes to appear more visible and give you a wide-eyed look.

There are various factors that contribute to bulging eyes, including heredity and thyroid problems. Bulging eyes can also be a symptom of serious underlying health problems such as:.

Graves’ disease
Orbital tumors or inflammation
Blood vessel disorders such as arteriovenous fistula
Hypertension

If you have bulging eyes or notice that your eyes are changing in appearance, it’s critical to visit an eye doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Loss of Peripheral Vision

Peripheral vision is the ability to see objects and movements outside of your direct line of sight. If you’re experiencing a loss of peripheral vision, you may not notice objects or movements on the sides of your visual field.

This can be caused by various health problems, including:.

Glaucoma
Diabetic retinopathy
Retinitis pigmentosa
Stroke or brain injury

Since peripheral vision loss can be a sign of serious underlying health problems, it’s important to see an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam.

Your doctor may recommend various diagnostic tests to determine the cause of peripheral vision loss and provide appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Your eyes are not only the window to your soul but also a reflection of your overall health. Various changes in your eyes, such as yellowing, redness, dryness, or loss of vision, may signify an underlying health condition that needs prompt attention.

Therefore, if you’re experiencing any unusual changes in your eyes, consult an eye doctor immediately to rule out any serious health problems.