Why is there Discoloration in the White Portion of the Eyes?

24th April 202324th April 2023

The eyes are the most sensitive organs in the human body, and keeping them safe and pristine is crucial for every individual. A protective layer called sclera in the eyes covers more than 3/4th of the eyeball surface and is white. But what if the white color turns into another color? Eye discolor demands an ophthalmologist’s consultation, as there could be various reasons behind this condition, and a proper diagnosis is imperative. This post will discuss some reasons behind the change in the hue of the sclera.

Reason for brown Sclera

Few human beings have brown spots in the whites of their eyes due to high melanin levels. Melanin is a dark pigment in the skin, eyes, and hair. The higher the level of melanin, the darker the pigmentation will be. It is predominant in African Americans and innocuous.

Sometimes, the brown spots might not seem serious, but they can harm the eyes. A condition named PAM (primary acquired melanosis) looks like a freckle and starts with a brown spot on the sclera. The condition is painless at the initial stage but changes with time. Middle-aged people are more prone to this condition. If left untreated, the condition can be life-threatening and become cancerous. Never undermine or neglect any spot growing in the eyes. Consult a specialist as soon as possible.

Sclera turning yellow

Eye discolor could be of many hues, like yellow. There could be various reasons behind the color of the eye turning yellow. Pinguecula is a condition caused by the damage done by dust and the sun’s UV. A yellowish, abnormal growth on the conjunctiva is referred to as a pinguecula. If the condition is not treated, the growth can extend to the cornea and eventually block vision. An expanded pinguecula is also known as a surfer’s eye.

Jaundice is often a reason for turning the entire sclera color into a yellow hue. If the entire sclera turns yellow, refer to a doctor immediately because jaundice develops when the pancreas, gallbladder, and liver do not function properly.

Red and Pink spot

Like yellow, eyes can turn red due to various conditions. If the eye redness is accompanied by pain and unclear vision, one should immediately consult an ophthalmologist. Subconjunctival bleeding can lead to a change in the hue of the eye to bright red. The blood vessel gets broken and leaks underneath the sclera in this condition. Though it can heal without any treatment, visiting an eye doctor for precaution is still advisable.

Sometimes allergies, overexposure to smoke, dry eyes, and infections like conjunctivitis can also be responsible for red sclera. Serious and harmful conditions like uveitis and glaucoma can lead to red eyes.

Glaucoma is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. Left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Thus, it is important to seek glaucoma treatment in West Palm Beach, FL (or elsewhere) on an immediate basis. A variety of treatments are available for glaucoma, including medications, laser surgery, and traditional surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent or slow down vision loss.

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Conclusion

Eyescan discolor due to some medications as well. If the doctor has been informed about the discoloration while prescribing the medicine, one should not fret. But if the reason is unknown, one should not take it lightly and immediately contact an ophthalmologist for a diagnosis. Otherwise, if not treated, it might cost an individual’s vision.