Your eyes can reveal more than just vision problems.
According to eye specialists, changes in vision or the appearance of the eyes can sometimes be signs of other diseases or health conditions elsewhere in the body.
Here are some conditions, according to Prevention, that can affect the eyes in different ways.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and lead to blind spots in the field of vision.
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Some people also experience halos around lights, blurred vision, pain in the eye or forehead, and red eyes.
If left untreated, the condition can result in severe vision loss.
Cataracts
With cataracts, the eye’s lens gradually becomes cloudy.
This can cause vision to appear hazy or blurred, and colors may seem less vivid.
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Many people also experience increased sensitivity to glare and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.
Macular degeneration
Macular degeneration is a common cause of vision loss among older adults.
The condition affects the central area of the retina, which can make faces and objects appear distorted.
Straight lines may look wavy, while peripheral vision often remains unaffected.
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High cholesterol
In some cases, high cholesterol can lead to temporary vision disturbances. Vision may briefly disappear and then return.
Fatty deposits may also develop around the eyes, and grayish rings can form around the cornea.
Thyroid problems
If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, the muscles around the eyes may swell.
This can cause the eyes to appear more prominent than usual. Some people may also experience double vision.
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Graves’ disease
The autoimmune condition Graves’ disease can cause the eyelids to retract, making the eyes appear larger.
If the eyelids cannot close completely, it can lead to dry and irritated eyes.
Diabetes
Diabetes can cause the central area of the retina to swell or accumulate fluid. This can lead to vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.
People with diabetes are also at increased risk of both glaucoma and cataracts.
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Retinal migraine
Retinal migraine can present as temporary blind spots, flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or floating lines in the field of vision.
The symptoms typically occur in only one eye and often last for a short period.
Myasthenia gravis
The autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis can weaken the muscles around the eyes.
This can make it difficult to keep the eyelids open and may also cause double vision.
Lupus
Lupus can lead to uveitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the eye.
Symptoms may include blurred vision, pain, redness, and sensitivity to light.
Multiple sclerosis
Vision changes can be an early sign of multiple sclerosis.
Reduced vision in one eye, pain during eye movement, faded color perception, or double vision may be among the symptoms.
Stroke
A sudden loss of vision can be a sign of a stroke.
Vision loss may affect one eye, part of the visual field, or both eyes. The condition can also cause double vision and problems with eye movement.
Source: Prevention.