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Everyone knows that the eyes are the window to the soul. But did you know they’re also the window to your health? One of the reasons it’s so important to get regular eye exams is because your eye doctor checks for diseases and conditions that show symptoms in your eyes before they show symptoms anywhere else.

So what do your eyes say about your health? Read about the symptoms below and then schedule an appointment at Eyesight Associates to learn about any underlying conditions you might have.

Red or Bloodshot Eyes

Red eyes, whether the redness appears throughout the eye or as a spot on the eye, can be a sign of several conditions:

  • Diabetes
  • Allergies (typically accompanied by itchy eyes)
  • Pinkeye (typically accompanied by itchy eyes and discharge)
  • Infection

Your eye doctor will be able to determine which condition is causing your red or bloodshot eyes and offer a treatment.

Dry Eyes

Like red eyes, dry eyes can be a symptom of a few conditions. Staring at your computer for too long can cause computer vision syndrome (CVS), which results in dry eyes. To protect your eyes while working at the computer, use the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Certain medications, like anti-anxiety medication, pain relievers, and sleeping pills, can cause dry eyes. A more serious condition that causes dry, sensitive eyes is called Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune system disorder. Even arthritis can cause dry eyes.

Yellow Eyes

When the whites of your eyes turn yellow, you are probably suffering from jaundice. Jaundice occurs when your liver isn’t working properly, and it shows up most often newborns or adults with liver, gallbladder, or bile duct problems.

Twitching Eyes

Many people have experienced twitching eyes at some point, and it is often an indication of fatigue. Too much caffeine or stress can also cause the eyes to twitch.

Numerous other conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, high cholesterol, and more can be detected with a simple eye exam. Schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable eye doctors today to learn what your eyes could be saying about your health.