Share:

Ranging from baby blue to deep navy, blue eyes are as rare as they are striking. With only 17% of the world’s population boasting this shade, blue eyes are often seen as a positive attribute. But how do blue eyes relate to your health and vision care? This simple guide will break down some of the differences.

How Are Blue Eyes Unique?

They Are More Sensitive to Light

vision careIf you squint in the sunlight more than your brown-eyed friends, your baby blues may be to blame. Since lighter eyes have more melanin, the retina has less protection. To account for this sensitivity, wear sunglasses whenever you are outside. If, however, sensitivity persists, speak with a vision care professional since it could be the result of a different, underlying condition unaffected by eye color.

They May Be More Susceptible to Certain Diseases

Some studies have suggested that people with light eyes are more likely to experience age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This could be because AMD is more prevalent in Caucasian populations, and individuals with lighter skin are more likely to have blue eyes. Therefore, in addition to having an annual appointment with a vision care doctor, seek an ophthalmologist if you have dark or blurry vision or color-perception shifts.

They May Be Able to See Stationary Objects More Clearly

Rick Sturm of the University of Queensland recently discovered that blue eyes likely predate light skin, after doing DNA analysis on a 7,000-year-old hunter’s tooth. His theory is that this feature developed to combat dark Neolithic winters and that, additionally, it may have helped people perceive small differences in non-moving objects, like different types of plants.



To make your eye health a priority, you need the right eye doctor on your side. Kenneth Houchin MD offers exemplary vision care to patients in Elko, NV, and the surrounding area. He specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of vision conditions, including AMD. To schedule an appointment, call his office today at (775) 738-5193.

tracking