Eyes can be an early sign of diseases – from diabetes to a diseased liver

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Eyes are the mirror of the soul, as well as an indicator of health. A number of symptoms and changes can occur that indicate that something may not be quite right.

Autoimmune conditions

There are many types of autoimmune diseases that may affect your vision.

“In many cases, eye problems are one of the first symptoms of autoimmune diseases,” said Broberg Eye Care. “At first, patients may experience red eyes, itchy eyes, or frequent dry eyes. If the condition goes undiagnosed or untreated, patients can experience eye pain, sensitivity to light, changes in vision, and even vision loss.”

Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune disease that affects the nerves of the eyes and the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body's own tissues and organs.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes facial redness. When rosacea is localized around the eyes, it can cause dry eyes, itchy eyes, burning sensation around the eyes, and red eyes. The condition can also cause swelling of the eyelids and increased sensitivity to light.

Liver disease

Jaundice (yellow whites of the eyes) often means you have a problem with the liver and is caused by high levels of bilirubin, which your liver produces more when it is inflamed or damaged.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause macular edema, which called diabetic macular edema. Over time, this disease can destroy the visual acuity in that part of the eye, leading to partial vision loss or blindness. Macular edema usually develops in people who already have other signs of diabetic retinopathy.