You might notice small changes in your appearance every day while looking in the mirror. Sometimes, you might see something new in your eyes, like a faint, light-colored ring forming around your iris. This can seem odd, but it often has a simple explanation, and it’s worth mentioning to your eye doctor.
Stress rings are visible arcs or circles in the cornea, often associated with age or high cholesterol levels, rather than emotional stress. These rings signal that it may be a good time to check in on your overall eye health with a professional from our team.
What These Rings on Your Eyes Mean
Stress rings, medically known as arcus senilis, are gray, white, or blueish rings that can form in the outer part of your cornea. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outer layer at the very front of your eye. These rings are deposits of fats, called lipids, that build up over time.
Appearance and Common Signs
The appearance of these rings can be subtle at first and may not be immediately obvious. They shouldn’t interfere with your vision, but are noticeable upon closer inspection. Common signs include:
- A visible half-circle or full circle on the cornea
- A ring appearing on the top or bottom of the cornea
The Connection Between Stress and Eye Rings
Despite the common name “stress rings,” these marks are not directly caused by emotional or psychological stress. The term is a popular nickname, but the true cause is related to other factors within your body. It’s a physical signal, not a reflection of your mental state.
The ring itself is a deposit of cholesterol and other fats that circulate in the bloodstream. Over time, these lipids can accumulate in the periphery of the cornea. This is why the ring’s presence can sometimes be linked to your body’s overall wellness.
Do Stress Rings Signal a Health Concern?
The significance of these rings often depends on your age. For many, they are a common part of the body’s natural changes over time.
Age and The Appearance of Eye Rings
It’s quite common for these rings to appear as people get older. They often begin to form after the age of 45 and are seen frequently in older adults, which is why routine eye exams for adults and seniors are so important. In this context, they are usually not a cause for concern.
Cholesterol and Other Possible Causes
In people under 45, rings on the cornea can sometimes be a sign of high cholesterol or other fats in the blood, a condition known as familial hyperlipidemia. This is one example of how changes in the eyes can reflect what’s happening elsewhere in the body. An eye exam can help identify these signs early so you can discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How to Address Rings Around Your Eyes
You cannot remove the rings themselves, as they are a deposit within the cornea. The focus is on addressing any underlying health factors that may contribute to their appearance. This is especially important for younger individuals who develop the rings.
The Role of Diet and Exercise
A balanced diet and regular physical activity support your overall wellness, which in turn supports your eye health. Simple lifestyle habits, like refraining from smoking, which is known to increase the risk of serious eye conditions, can contribute positively to your long-term health. These practices are beneficial for everyone, regardless of whether you have rings on your eyes.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If you notice a ring forming in one or both of your eyes, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam. A routine check-up provides a clear picture of your current eye health. This proactive step helps you stay informed about your body.
The Importance of a Regular Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye exam allows a professional to look at all parts of your eye. It’s a key part of preventative care for your vision and a window into your overall health. To understand everything involved, you can learn more about what happens during an eye exam and how we observe changes you might not see on your own.
What to Discuss with Your Eye Doctor
When you visit an eye doctor, be prepared to talk about when you first noticed the rings. You can also discuss any family health history and your general lifestyle habits. This information helps us understand your situation and provide personalized care.
Noticing a change in your eyes doesn’t have to be a source of worry. Instead, you can see it as an opportunity to be proactive about your health.
Our Total Vision Riverside team focuses on your entire health story to support your vision for years to come. If you’ve seen a ring in your eye or it’s simply time for a check-up, we’re here to help. Schedule a visit with our team today to get a clear view of your eye health.
