Pay attention to your eyes. They may reveal early symptoms of dementia

In a new scientific breakthrough, a new study from the University of Otago in New Zealand indicates that looking into the eyes may one day help doctors detect signs of dementia long before memory loss begins.

Dr. Ashley Barrett-Young, a professor of psychology at the University of Otago and lead researcher on the study, said that the retina is connected to the brain, according to Money Control.

Pay attention to your eye health

She explained that the retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye and is part of the central nervous system, meaning it is directly connected to the brain. Therefore, changes in the retina can reflect what's happening in the brain, including early signs of diseases like Alzheimer's.

Blood vessels in the eye

She added that small blood vessels in the eye can carry important clues, as they can show early signs of damage that could be linked to dementia.

She also noted that narrow arteries and dilated veins are more common in people with signs of brain aging.

She indicated that eye examinations would be a tool for early detection of dementia, explaining that cognitive tests often cannot predict the disease, but rather indicate it after symptoms appear, and that brain scans, such as MRIs, are expensive.

On the other hand, Retinal examinations are fast, non-invasive, and easy to access.

She emphasized that dilated venules (tiny veins in the eye) were associated with several warning signs, making them a new area that should be closely monitored.

Key Findings of the Study

The study emphasized that there is no cause for panic, as the results do not mean that anyone's next eye examination can predict dementia yet.

She explained that eye examinations cannot predict future brain health. Although the results are promising, further research is needed before they can be used for practical diagnosis.

She also emphasized that eye health means more than just good vision; taking care of your eye health can also be part of how you protect your brain.