Health News 03/07/2025 14:16

3 Eye Symptoms That Signal Hidden Health Issues: High Cholesterol, Stroke, and Cancer





The eyes can reveal certain underlying health issues. Dr. Rachel Ward explains that if these three signs appear in or around the eyes, you may be facing health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, stroke, or even cancer.

  1. White or Yellow Growth Near the Eyes
    Dr. Rachel explains that if a white or yellowish lump appears around the eyes or near the eyelids, known as xanthelasma, it could be a warning sign of high cholesterol levels. If left uncontrolled, high cholesterol can accumulate in the artery walls, affecting the blood flow to the heart. Cholesterol buildup in the arteries also increases the risk of blood clots and coronary artery disease.
    According to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), high cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), stroke, heart attacks, and peripheral artery disease (PAD).

  2. Yellowing of the Eyes (Scleral Icterus)
    Dr. Rachel explains, “If the whites of the eyes turn yellow, it could indicate high levels of bilirubin in the blood.” High bilirubin levels can be caused by conditions such as gallstones, hepatitis, cirrhosis, or even liver, pancreatic, or gallbladder cancer.
    Dr. Rachel advises, “If you experience yellowing of the eyes, you should visit a healthcare provider for an examination, diagnosis, and timely treatment.”

  3. Blurred Vision, Double Vision, Partial/Complete Vision Loss
    Blurred vision or double vision can be warning signs of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or stroke.
    Dr. Rachel states, “The nerves in the brain control the functions of the body, including vision. When a stroke occurs (whether caused by hemorrhagic stroke or ischemic stroke), it can damage one or more areas of the brain, affecting vision.” Stroke can also cause various other effects depending on which part of the brain is affected. Besides vision issues, stroke can cause weakness in limbs, speech impairments, and more.
    If not treated promptly, stroke can affect health and even increase the risk of death. Therefore, if you experience vision issues, you should seek medical attention at a hospital.
    In addition to stroke, vision problems can also be a sign of brain cancer. When a tumor develops in the brain, it can press on certain nerves responsible for vision, leading to issues like blurred vision, double vision, or even vision loss.

News in the same category

News Post