Eyes are not just important for sight but can tell a lot about your general health

Changes in your eyes can show diabetes, stress, retinal detachment and many other issues.  According to Natasha Herz, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, many health conditions can be detected if you just look at the eyes.  

Here are some issues that can be seen when looking at the eyes:

1. Blood shot eyes:
   If you eyes are constantly blood shot when there is limited strain can mean you have a lymphatic issue.  If you are not rubbing them, staring at a computer for long hours at a time or have allergies. Blood shot eyes are showing signs that the lymphatic system is backed up. It can also be broken blood vessels from coughing or sneezing, lack of sleep or allergies.  
   
   
2. Infection:
   White spots on the cornea can show that you have an infection and lead to other issues.
   
   
3. Stress:
   Eye twitching is a sign of stress.  It may be a lack of sleep or just plain over use of the sympathetic nervous system.  
4. Blurred vision:
   Vision issues can be a sign of diabetes.  It can also mean you may be getting cataracts or macular degeneration.
   
   
5.  White ring around the eye:
   This is a sign of high cholesterol and risk of stroke or heart attack
   
   
6. Dry eyes and dry skin around the eyes:
   This means you are either rubbing your eyes too much or have allergies.  
   
   
7. Specks in your vision:
   These are normally called "floaters" This may mean you have a retinal tear that can be very serious and needs to be addressed immediately.
   
   
8. Discolored whites of the eye (Sclera):
   This can be too much sun or sun damage to the eye.  It can become cancerous so it should be evaluated by an eye doctor
   
   
9. Yellow eyes:
   This is a sign of Jaundice or liver issues.  It can also be Hepatitis, alcohol related, liver disease, gallstones, blockages of the bile ducts or cancer
   
   
10. Water eyes:
    This means you are stressing your eyes and they are strained.  
    
    
11. Bulging eyes:
    This is a sign of a Hyperthyroid or Grave's Disease.  
    
    If you notice eye changes, get an exam and make sure you are cleared of any eye issues.  The eyes really are the window to your soul and health!
    
    Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF is a San Francisco, CA and San Carlos, CA chiropractor that understands full body health.  She works with athletes, expectant moms, office workers and everyone else in between.  Contact our San Francisco, CA chiropractic office or San Carlos, CA chiropractic office today!
    
    References:
    https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/g4280/what-eyes-say-about-your-health/?slide=12