When something is wrong inside your body, it sends signals outward through colors, splotches, coughs, and sneezes.
External changes in the body could mean that numerous things are amiss inside; a sore throat could mean bronchitis and stomach pains could mean ulcers.
Most of the time, it is easy to tell if something is wrong with your body because no one knows it better than you do.
If there's any spot, scratch, or ache, you can usually spot it right away.
But there is one part of your body that you may be overlooking that is highly sensitive to whatever is going on in your system. It is out there in plain sight, because it is your sight — well — your eye, to be exact.
The whites of your eyes are an amazing indicator to see if you are healthy or if you need to potentially see a doctor.
You may think that you know your eyes better than any other part of your body, but look closely — are there any small spots or discoloration you are dismissing?
Scroll through below to learn what the whites of your eyes are and what their changes could be revealing to you about your health!
What Are The Whites Of Your Eyes?
The whites of your eyes known as your "sclera" is the protective outer layer containing collagen and elastic fiber.
It covers the muscles that make your eyes move around in their sockets.
How They Are Connected With Your Body’s Health
Your eyes are an important indicator of your health.
They give early and immediate signals if something is off in your body.
If there is an imbalance somewhere, or there are severe problems with your heart or brain, there is a good chance your vision will be one of the first things to fail.
The whites of your eyes react similarly, but are sensitive to more gradual ailments.
Below are some sclera symptoms and what they are trying to tell you about your insides.
#1: A Gray Ring Around The Cornea
A gray ring around the eye, which is called "arcus senilis" is usually an early indicator of high cholesterol and triglycerides.
This could mean an increased risk of heart attack, so you may want to get your blood pressure checked if you notice this symptom.
#2: Twisted Blood Vessels On The Eye
Broken or inflamed blood vessels around the iris are a sign of internal or external eye trauma.
This could be caused by a sudden increase in blood pressure or blood thinning, and it may be a concerning indication of a shift in proper blood circulation.
#3: Yellowish Color
Also known as "scleral icterus," yellow eyes are generally a sign of jaundice caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, according to Health Grades.
This can also mean liver damage or dysfunction caused by serious diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis.
#4: Eyes That Seem To Bulge
In most cases, the whites of the eyes should not extend over the iris.
But if they are visible between the iris and your upper eyelid, this is considered abnormal bulging.
The most common cause of this is hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid.
This is caused when the thyroid gland, located in your neck, produces too many hormones in a short amount of time.
#5: Red, Irritated Eyes
The reddening of the eyes is one of the most common sclera symptoms.
Red, distressed eyes could be due to anything from allergies to sleep deprivation.
But sometimes they could be the signal of a more serious illness like glaucoma.
#6: Dark Patches On The Eye
Sometimes, dark splotches on your eye can be completely benign.
But according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, they could be a reaction to certain topical eye medications or could be a sign of melanoma.
#7: White Spots In And Around The Eye
White spots on the eye could mean that you have developed a corneal ulcer.
This is an open sore on the cornea caused by an infection.
This symptom is usually coupled with soreness, sensitivity to light, and the feeling that something is in your eye.
Paying attention to the whites of your eyes can mean that you are more aware of the changes that are happening in your body; and consulting a doctor can give you a better idea of what your eyes are telling you.
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