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Jul 10, 2008 7:32 pm US/Eastern
HealthWatch: Eyes Provide Warning Signs Of Illness
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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While the eyes may be a window into the soul, they also give us a clear view into people's health – as long as they know what to look for.
AP
They say the eyes tell the whole story, and doctors couldn't agree more. Some eye problems could really be warning signs everyone needs to know.
While the eyes may be a window into the soul, they also give us a clear view into people's health – as long as they know what to look for.
Though some irritating eye symptoms are nothing to worry about, in other cases eyes may be trying to warn their owners about serious health problems.
Dots and spots in the line of vision are called floaters, which can be a normal part of aging but not always.
"If you're seeing dark floaters like somebody's dropping a box of raisins in front of your eyes, then it's something that you need to have somebody look at," Dr. Richard Rosen, of the NY Eye and Ear Infirmary, said.
A tear of the retina could be to blame.
The new onset of double vision should also be taken seriously, particularly if it occurs in both eyes. Brain tumors and thyroid problems are among the possible causes of double vision.
Styes are usually harmless infections on the eyelash line that go away in a few days, but if they persist, it could be more serious.
"Generally, in older patients, be wee little skin cancers that can look very similar to a stye," Rosen said.
As people age, the sclera or white part of the eye may seem not quite as bright, and usually that's nothing to worry about.
But yellow eyes are a danger sign, and could represent liver or kidney problems that would require an urgent visit to the doctor.
Seeing halos around lights is also a common concern, but many disregard it.
"Halos are caused when there is some swelling that occurs," Rosen said. "Generally, it's due to swelling of the cornea."
Halos can be caused by something as simple as wearing contact lenses too long, but can also be the effect of cataracts and glaucoma.
Even when not experiencing unusual symptoms, it's a good idea to have an eye exam at least once a year.
Common illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure can be picked up in the eyes early.
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