Can Ophthalmologists Detect Brain Tumors?

The term, “the eyes are the window to the soul” isn’t solely to do with the romantic scenes it brings to mind. They’re truly marvelous structures that, you might be surprised to know, can show signs of many illnesses before a single symptom occurs. 

A brain tumor is one such issue. The following discusses the reasons why eyes are such a mine of information, the types of conditions that a simple eye test might pick up, and why regular eye checks should be considered a vital element throughout your life.

Eye Tests and the Illnesses They Can Detect 

• Why the eyes are so informative
• What does an eye test check for?
• How can ophthalmologists detect brain tumors and other FAQs?

Why the eyes are so informative 

The interior of the eye is a fascinating area. The structures are extremely sensitive and provide a snapshot into the tissues, blood vessels, and nerves of the whole body. If something’s going a little awry elsewhere, evidence of this can often be seen in the eyes. This can be way, way before even the mildest of symptoms start to show.

This is because the body works as a dynamic system. Everything that’s going on in one area impacts everywhere else. A good analogy is that of a car. If one of the drive belts isn’t working correctly, you might get reduced fuel economy. While the problem isn’t to do with the gas tank, the symptoms show up here. 

The same is true with humans. An issue deep in the body can cause problems elsewhere—and the eyes are very often the first place this can be noticed.

What does an eye check test for? 

An illness or medical condition very often doesn’t become symptomatic until it progresses. But there will be subtle signs elsewhere—typically in the eyes—way before this happens. For example, if your cholesterol is high, there can be evidence of this in the retina. Deposits can accumulate in the tiny blood vessels that feed the structure—and this can be picked up during a routine eye check.

Other conditions that you might be surprised can show in the eyes include: 

• Brain tumors
• Hypertension
• Multiple sclerosis
• Intolerance to certain medications
• Stroke
• Sickle cell disease
• Vitamin A deficiency
• Lupus
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Aneurysm
• Diabetes

This certainly isn’t an exhaustive list, but details some of the conditions that doctors might see evidence of during routine eye exams. 

How can ophthalmologists detect brain tumors and other FAQs?

A brain tumor might be picked up by an ophthalmologist because the optic disc has swollen— a very early sign. This, along with increased pressure on the optic nerve, are typical signs that happen when pressure begins to build in the brain. While it doesn’t automatically mean that there’s a brain tumor, it raises suspicion and would lead to further urgent medical checks to confirm. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the better the prognosis. 

Your eye doctor might also raise a concern through other potential symptoms, such as:

• Abnormal eye movements
• Squinting
• Blurred or double vision
• Blind spots or restricted vision
• Issues with eye movement control
• Bulging eyes
• Vision issues triggered by coughing, bending down, or sneezing

If your ophthalmologist does notice anomalies during a regular eye test, rest assured that they will err on the side of caution. Far better to have further medical checks to be told all is well than to ignore it and allow the condition to progress. 

So… Now you have another reason to make sure you don’t miss your annual or bi-annual eye exams. Great vision and great health go hand-in-hand, so make sure you don’t miss out.

Partner with the West Boca Eye Center for the Ultimate Clinical Care 

As a leading clinical facility for every aspect of eye care, there’s no better place to entrust your visual health. From regular eye checks to specialist cataract care, laser vision correction, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.

Get to know us at https://www.westbocaeyecenter.com and call today to chat with our friendly team.

The term, “the eyes are the window to the soul” isn’t solely to do with the romantic scenes it brings to mind.