Many systemic diseases, which are diseases affecting the entire body, can have a significant impact on your eyes and vision. These diseases can affect various parts of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, cornea, and lens. In some cases, eye problems may be the first sign of a systemic disease. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the impact of systemic conditions on eye health.

• Diabetes: As mentioned earlier, diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, a major cause of blindness. It can also increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to hypertensive retinopathy.

• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren’s syndrome can cause dry eye, uveitis, and scleritis (inflammation of the white part of the eye).

• Thyroid Disease: Thyroid disorders can cause dry eye, double vision, and bulging eyes (Graves’ disease).

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS can cause optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve), leading to blurred vision, eye pain, and double vision.

• Infections: Certain infections, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), can cause uveitis and retinitis.

Patients with systemic diseases often require specialized eye care to monitor for and manage potential eye complications. Regular eye exams can help detect eye problems early, when they are most treatable. A comprehensive approach is needed that coordinates care between the ophthalmologist and other specialists managing the systemic disease.