Our Eyes: Windows Into Overall Physical Health

Surprisingly, eye health is a focal indicator of one’s overall physical health and quality of life. From cancer to high blood pressure, diabetes to thyroid problems and more, a comprehensive examination of a patient's eyes can alert an ophthalmologist or optometrist to diseases previously undetected. Learn more about medical conditions linked to the eyes.

Skin Cancer 

A temporary eyelid sore may be harmless, but one that does not heal may indicate basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer. The tumor is most commonly found on the lower eyelid, and loss of eyelashes can suggest malignancy. Although basal cell skin cancer is not usually fatal, it may reoccur after treatment or lead to other types of skin cancer. Look out for changes in the skin around the eyelid as an early indicator of basal cell carcinoma, such as a reddish nodule forming on the eyelid or changes in pigmentation.

Breast Cancer

Occasionally, the first sign of breast cancer arrives through a routine eye examination or changes in the quality of vision. Malignant, harmful tumors from the lung, breast, and elsewhere in the body can reach into and around the eyes. The tumors might never be detected until they affect vision, are noticed by the patient, or force the eye forward in its socket.

Thyroid Problems

Bulging eyes could indicate exophthalmos—an over-active thyroid gland issue known as Graves' disease. The Mayo Clinic estimates about 30 percent of individuals with Graves' disease show some signs of Graves' ophthalmopathy, an inflammation of the tissues and muscles around the eyes. Symptoms often are the loss of weight, an irregular or rapid pulse, and nervousness. Graves' disease, which is common among women and the elderly, is treatable.

Diabetes

When an ophthalmologist discovers miniature hemorrhages in the retina and yellowish sediments of blood fats, it could be a sign of diabetes. Consult with an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination—those with diabetes often develop diabetic retinopathy, a complication that can cause mild vision problems and even blindness. For a patient already diagnosed with the disease, he or she can be reassured by the National Eye Institute's statement that early detection and treatment of diabetes reduces the risk of blindness by 95 percent.

Autoimmune Disease

Drooping eyelids and pupils varying in size may indicate a life-threatening condition known as Horner syndrome. This autoimmune disease is sometimes associated with aneurysms and tumors in the neck. If you detect drooping eyelids or pupils, then immediate medical attention is necessary.

A regular comprehensive eye exam can help avoid eye damage and provide insight of overall physical health. Excellent Vision Eye offers unrivaled eye care to residents of Maine and New Hampshire, where our skilled doctors specialize in cataract surgeries using the latest in technology. Please call us at 603-430-5225 for an appointment or fill out our contact form to get started today!