Who has ever heard of having cholesterol deposits in both eyes? Dear Lord, when does this end? Cholesterol can even show up in deposits on the eyelids. It's bad enough that cholesterol, that is too much cholesterol, caused by food or genetics can cause heart attack and strokes, but turning the cornea of both eyes yellow, white, or gray in color?
More: Corneal arcus is an eye condition characterized by the formation of a ring around the edge of the cornea in both eyes. It usually develops symmetrically and may start out as an incomplete ring. Depending on a patient's age at the time of onset, this condition can be a cause for concern or a normal part of the aging process. It is usually diagnosed and evaluated by an ophthalmologist, a physician who focuses on providing eye care.
The ring is formed of lipids that have infiltrated the cornea, and it can be yellow, white, or gray in color. When people are born, they usually have a corneal arcus that fades with time. In older adults, generally people over the age of 60, the formation of a corneal arcus is very common. Initially, the center of the cornea will be clear and vision will be relatively unobscured. Over time, this can change, with the vision becoming cloudy. In both of these cases, the arcus is considered normal.
Next time you order that hamburger and fries think of your eyes. Remember everything improves with proper diet and exercise. It is never too late to change. And small changes add up!
Lois Trader is the National Heart Health Examiner. Her new book SURVIVING is available now.
Comments