Proper eye care is so much more than wearing the right prescriptions and using a reading lamp when it's dark. Your eyes are one of the most clear indicators of the state of your health. When they change in function, color, or appearance, it can be a sign that there is a greater issue requiring your attention. Here is a guide to what your eyes could be signaling and what to do to protect your eyesight. 

What Your Eyes Can Tell You About Your Overall Health

1. Twitching

While this involuntary eyelid spasm is quite common and often harmless, it can be a helpful indicator that you need to slow down and take better care of yourself. You may notice your eyes twitching more often when you haven't had enough rest, if you're stressed or fatigued, or during alcohol consumption or tobacco use. Although it can be linked to multiple sclerosis, the likelihood is very low as studies show it to be a symptom much further into the development of the disease, preceded by very clear MS markers. 

2. Sudden Blurry Vision 

If your vision blurs dramatically and suddenly, it's important to contact your doctor right away. Instantaneously impaired vision typically identifies a lack of blood flow to either the eye or the brain. Medical intervention is critical to preserve your eyesight, even if your vision quickly comes to focus. Sudden blurry vision can be a sign of a stroke, migraine, or other underlying medical conditions. 

3. Droopy Eyelids

Sagging eyelids may not always be a harmless sign of aging or lackluster skin or eye care. It can be a symptom of myasthenia gravies, an autoimmune disorder that attacks the skeletal muscles in your eyes, mouth, throat, and limbs. Additional symptoms include impaired speech as well as difficulty chewing and swallowing. However, for 1 in 5 people, only the eyes are affected. Contact your doctor to begin the appropriate treatment. 

Are you looking for a skilled optometrist to trust with your eye care? Look no further than Elko Eye Center in Nevada. Whether you've noticed recent changes in your vision, have a chronic condition, or had an accident that affected your sight, Dr. Kenneth Houchin specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of issues. From glaucoma to retinopathy to vision impairment caused by neurological diseases, Dr. Houchin provides high-quality, personalized care to help every patient recover as quickly as possible. To schedule an appointment with Elko Eye Center, call (775) 738-5193. For the Las Vegas Valley Eye Center, call (702) 718-2020. Learn more about the practice from their website.