A Complete Guide to Eye Cancers; Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

Risk Factors Of Eye Cancer

Unlike other types of cancer, there are simple things that cause or trigger eye and skin cancers such as genes, sunlight, and ethnicity. Eye cancer is more common in fairer skinned individuals than any other race and those who have light colored eyes. Patients who were diagnosed with skin cancer in the past, or have skin moles are more likely to receive a positive eye cancer diagnosis when compared to others. Eye melanomas can also be passed genetically through a gene called BPA1. Other catalysts include increased exposure to sunlight, or occupational hazards associated with welding and working in chemical industries. Of course, not all types of eye cancer have a definitive cause, but they are commonly related to a malfunctioning gene or cells growing out of order to form tumors.

Symptoms

The symptoms of eye cancer are similar to migraines and other eye issues, so it can be challenging to detect eye cancer in its early stages. Such signs include a change in vision where an individual's sight is blurry, or they see flashes of light, floaters or zigzags. However, certain types of eye cancer cause visible changes in the eye such as black spots, sores, and wounds. Some patients will lose part of their vision without experiencing any other signs, while others will feel intense ocular pain. Since it is difficult to differentiate eye cancer symptoms and other kinds of eye problems, it is better to visit an ophthalmologist immediately after experiencing odd spots or malfunctions in the eyes.