Your eyes help you understand the world around you, but they can also show changes that deserve medical attention. Some eye symptoms are minor, while others may indicate an infection, injury or serious medical condition.
Here are seven changes you should never ignore.
1. Sudden blurred vision: A sudden change in eyesight may be linked to problems involving the retina, blood vessels or other parts of the eye.
2. Yellowing of the white part of the eye: Yellow eyes may indicate jaundice, which can be associated with liver disease, blood disorders or problems with bile flow.
3. Persistent redness: Red eyes can result from allergies, irritation or infection. Severe pain or changes in vision require urgent assessment.
4. Flashes of light: New flashes, especially when accompanied by many floating spots or a dark shadow, may indicate a retinal tear or detachment.
5. Eye pain: Pain may be caused by infection, injury, inflammation or increased pressure inside the eye.
6. Unequal pupils: Pupils that suddenly become different sizes, particularly with headache, pain or neurological symptoms, need urgent medical assessment.
7. A sudden loss of vision: Losing sight in one or both eyes suddenly is a medical emergency. Do not wait for it to improve on its own.
How can you protect your eyes? Have regular eye examinations, protect your eyes from injury, wear prescribed glasses and manage conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Avoid using steroid eye drops or antibiotic drops without appropriate medical advice.
Final thoughts: Changes in your eyes should not always be dismissed as ordinary tiredness. Sudden vision loss, flashes with new floaters, severe pain or sudden visual changes require urgent attention.
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