Are Your Eyes a Window to Your Health?

Regular eye exams by an optometrist can be essential to maintaining your overall health

According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO), an eye exam could help detect potentially life-threatening conditions such as brain tumours, high blood pressure and diabetes. But how is it that an optometrist can see the future in your eyes?

Cancer

According to the CAO, a brain tumour can cause vision abnormalities and even skin cancer may be detected during a comprehensive eye exam, as lesions often first appear on the eyelid.

Diabetes

According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, an estimated one million Canadians live with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Damage to the small blood vessels in your retina could be an indicator of diabetes.

High Blood Pressure

The blood vessels in the retina can help identify hypertension (high blood pressure), a leading cause of heart attack and stroke.

Neurological Conditions

The CAO explains that since the optic nerve is essentially an extension of the brain, a neurological condition that affects nerve cells can be detected during an eye exam. Problems with eye movement and the ability of your eyes to track and work together could be an indication of Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis.