Why Are the Whites of My Eyes Discolored? An Optometrist’s Perspective
Patients often come to me concerned about changes they notice in their eyes, and a common question I hear is: Why do the whites of my eyes look discolored? The white part of the eye, known as the sclera, normally appears bright and clear. But over time, it may take on a yellow, bluish, or reddish appearance—or even develop spots or patches. Sometimes this is nothing more than a normal, age-related change, but in other cases, it can signal an underlying health issue. Understanding the possible causes is important, as your eyes often reveal more than you realize about your overall health.
Everyday Causes of Eye Discoloration
Not every change in the sclera is a cause for alarm. For example, as we age, the sclera naturally becomes thinner. This thinning allows the underlying tissue, which has a subtle bluish tint, to become more visible. Many cases are age-related and unlikely to cause any issues, However, scleral thinning can sometimes be associated with health issues such as rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, extreme myopia, and inflammation of the sclera. It is recommended to see an eye doctor to evaluate this condition and to determine if further testing is indicated.
Environmental factors also play a role in how the eyes look. Chronic irritation from allergies or dry eye syndrome can make the sclera appear dull or red. People who spend a great deal of time outdoors may notice yellowish bumps or growths on the surface of the eye, known as pinguecula or pterygium, which are caused by long-term sun exposure. Even lifestyle factors such as smoking or frequent exposure to dust and pollutants can contribute to a tired or reddish appearing eyes.
Certain medications may also influence scleral color. A well-known example is the antibiotic minocycline, which in some cases can cause the sclera to take on a bluish tint with long-term use. While this change is usually harmless, it can be surprising to patients who are not expecting it.
When Discoloration Signals a Health Concern
While many changes are benign, there are times when discoloration of the sclera points to more serious conditions. One of the most recognizable examples is jaundice. A yellowish hue in the whites of the eyes often indicates elevated bilirubin levels in the body, which may be related to liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic disease. Because the eyes are so transparent to these systemic changes, yellowing should never be ignored and always warrants a medical evaluation.
Another common but striking occurrence is the appearance of a bright red patch over the sclera, known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This happens when a small blood vessel bursts under the conjunctiva (a clear, but highly vascularized membrane over the sclera). Common factors that can contribute to the development of a subconjunctival hemorrhage include coughing, sneezing, blood thinning medications, health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure, or straining. While it can look alarming, it is typically harmless and usually resolves on its own within a week or two.
In other cases, discoloration may point to conditions of the eye itself. Pigmented spots can appear on the sclera or conjunctiva, much like freckles or moles on the skin. Most of these are harmless, but because they have the potential to develop into ocular melanoma—a rare but serious cancer—they should be monitored closely for any changes in size, shape, or color.
Inflammatory conditions can also alter the sclera’s appearance. Scleritis, for example, causes deep inflammation that may make the eye appear reddish, darkened, or bluish. This condition is often painful and is sometimes associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike superficial irritation, scleritis requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
What to Do If You Notice a Change
If you notice that the whites of your eyes look different, the best course of action is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Even changes that seem minor can provide valuable clues about your health. Your optometrist has the tools to examine the sclera in detail, assess whether the discoloration is harmless or concerning, and guide you on any next steps. It is also helpful to keep track of when you first noticed the change and whether it has progressed. This kind of information can make it easier to determine the underlying cause.
Some cases require urgent care. For instance, if discoloration is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, or sudden visual changes, it is important to seek immediate attention. Similarly, yellowing of the eyes or a new pigmented spot should never be dismissed without evaluation.
What A Note on Whitening Eye Drops
It may be tempting to reach for over-the-counter “whitening” or “get the red out” eye drops that claim to brighten the whites of your eyes. However, frequent use of some of these eye whitening products is not recommended. Many types of eye whitening eyedrops work by constricting the superficial blood vessels on the eye’s surface. While this makes the sclera look whiter temporarily, it does not address the underlying cause of redness or discoloration.
Over time, reliance on these drops can actually worsen the problem. The blood vessels often rebound—dilating even more once the effect wears off—leading to chronic redness (known as rebound hyperemia). In some cases, overuse may also cause dryness, irritation, or mask an underlying eye condition that requires medical evaluation.
From a professional standpoint, if you notice persistent discoloration or redness, it’s safer to schedule an eye exam rather than masking the symptom with cosmetic drops.
Final Thoughts from an Optometrist
The sclera is more than a cosmetic feature—it can serve as a window into your overall health. While some discoloration is simply part of the natural aging process or a response to environmental exposure, other changes can signal systemic disease or eye conditions that require treatment. If you ever notice that the whites of your eyes no longer look as clear as they once did, don’t ignore the change. A timely exam is the best way to determine whether it is harmless or a sign of something more serious, and in many cases, early detection can make all the difference in protecting your vision and your health.
