8 Health Problems You Can Spot with an Eye Exam

Posted by: Caster Eye Center in Uncategorized

Most people think that eye exams are only for checking one’s vision or getting prescription glasses. But the truth is, an eye exam can reveal so much more about your health. A comprehensive eye exam can reveal early signs of serious health conditions that your eye surgeon can detect. Usually described as the windows to one’s soul, your eyes are actually windows to your health, too.  Here are 8 Health Problems You Can Spot with an Eye Exam.

8 Health Problems You Can Spot with an Eye Exam

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common health conditions that can show up in an eye exam. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to the tiny blood vessels in your retina, which is the part that senses light. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy and can develop without any noticeable symptoms at first. However, an ophthalmologist or optometrist may observe swelling, bleeding, or leaking blood vessels in the retina during an eye exam. These are clear signs of diabetes. Early detection through an eye exam can help you control your blood sugar and prevent the loss of your sight.

2. High Cholesterol 

Many people are unaware of this, too, but an eye doctor can spot high cholesterol just by looking at a patient’s eyes. A white or gray ring around the cornea, especially in younger patients, can be a sign of high cholesterol. Cholesterol may also be observable in the blood vessels of the retina. If an eye doctor observes this, they may recommend a blood test to check your blood cholesterol levels.

3. High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension often goes unnoticed. However, an eye exam can call your attention to this condition.

High blood pressure can cause changes in the blood vessels in the back of the eyes.

4. Autoimmune Diseases

Sometimes, inflammation in the eyes can be caused by autoimmune diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms you should look out for are dry eyes, blurry vision, eye pain, or vision loss.

Uveitis, which is an inflammation inside the eyes, can be linked to autoimmune disorders, and this can also be revealed through an eye exam. Early diagnosis and early treatment are imperative for the treatment of the underlying condition.

5. Thyroid Disease

Thyroid problems like hyperthyroidism can lead to changes in the eyes that are observable even to the untrained eye because of the signs of bulging eyes, otherwise known as exophthalmos.

An eye exam can reveal other symptoms like dry eyes, irritation, or double vision caused by thyroid-related eye disease. Spotting these signs early on can lead to early diagnosis and timely treatment.

6. Brain Tumors

Sometimes, changes in the eyes may also signal the possibility of a brain tumor. The increased pressure in the brain can affect the optic nerve and lead to swelling. This is known as papilledema.

A doctor may notice some changes in the eyes during a dilated eye exam, which may prompt him to recommend further testing, such as an MRI or CT scan. Sudden vision changes, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision are symptoms that should not be taken for granted.

7. Cancer

An eye exam may also reveal signs of some types of cancer. Melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer, for instance, can develop inside the eyes. This is called ocular melanoma.

In addition, tumors in other parts of the body, like the breast or lung, may spread to the eyes. Noticeable changes in the retina may be detected during an eye exam of a leukemia or lymphoma patient. 

8. Stroke Risk

Warning signs of stroke may also be observed in the eyes. Blood clots or blockages in the arteries of the eyes are one of these signs. Signs of past or recent mini-strokes may also be detected during an eye exam, prompting your doctor to send you to a specialist at once.

Get Your Eyes Examined by a Licensed Eye Specialist

A yearly comprehensive eye exam should be part of your eye care, but it can do more for you than just help with vision correction. It is a vital tool for your eye health and an important tool in detecting signs of early health problems. These signs are sometimes the first to show, even before other symptoms appear. This is why a yearly full eye exam is highly recommended, even if you do not think there is any problem with your vision. A yearly comprehensive eye exam can provide you with valuable information about your overall health at an opportune time. Remember that catching health problems early on can lead to early treatment and a better prognosis. 

Do not wait for problems to surprise you. Schedule an eye exam with us today.