The Things Your Ears Say About Your Health Copy

By molly atherton 5 months ago
Listen up, because your ears have been keeping secrets – and not just the ones whispered in hushed tones. These unassuming appendages aren't just for flaunting dazzling earrings or catching the latest gossip; they're also dropping hints about your health that you might not be tuning into. From the subtle symphony of sounds they detect to the mysterious messages encoded in their shape, your ears are like undercover agents revealing more about your well-being.

1. Creases in your earlobes

If you've ever glanced in the mirror and noticed a subtle crease or wrinkle making itself at home on your earlobe, you might want to pay a bit more attention. It turns out that this seemingly innocuous feature has been the focus of medical detectives.Cureus | A Myth Still Needs to be Clarified: A Case Report of the Frank's Sign | Article
image source: cureus.com
A crease or wrinkle in your earlobe can be slightly worrying. A diagonal crease in the middle of your earlobe is called 'Frank's sign' and studies have shown that this is a sign of coronary artery disease. Theories show that the crease is a breakdown of elastic tissue around the blood vessels.Original content sourced from Femanin.com

2. Symptoms of cardiac issues

Take a deep breath; there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Dr. Nina Shapiro, a seasoned expert in Neck and Head surgery at UCLA, offers a reassuring perspective on the matter. According to her, that subtle diagonal crease on your earlobe is dubbed Frank's sign.Earlobe Crease: How It Relates to Coronary Artery Disease
image source: insider
No need to panic though, Dr Nina Shapiro, professor of Neck and Head surgery at UCLA says: "It's just one marker and it should simply encourage one to incoroporate healthy habits, see one's doctor for regular checkups and be vigilant to any changes in your body that could be signs and symptoms of cardiac issues."

3. Hearing loss

Hearing loss is more than just a decline in auditory acuity; it's a ripple effect that extends far beyond the ears. The intricate dance between sound waves and our brain's interpretation is disrupted, and the consequences go beyond the obvious challenges of struggling to catch every word in a conversation.A visual progression of my hearing loss : r/deaf
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Hearing loss affects more than your hearing. It can contribute to both cognitive decline, memory loss, focus and dementia. When your brain is on overdrive trying to hear things that you're now missing it can strain your ears and result in social isolation if it continues for a long time.

4. A risk of developing Dementia

The link between hearing loss and dementia becomes even more poignant when considering the findings of researchers at John Hopkins University. Their investigations have revealed a staggering statistic: individuals grappling with moderate hearing loss are three times more likely to journey into the realm of dementia.Could changes in thinking skills be reversible dementia? - Harvard Health
image source: harvardhealth
Researchers at John Hopkins University have found that people with moderate hearing loss were three times more likely to develop dementia compared to those without hearing loss. While this is still being studied, it makes sense when you think about it. Your body is working overtime while straining to hear.

5. Hearing loss in just one ear

Hearing loss, like a versatile chameleon, can assume various forms and origins, ranging from traumatic incidents to insidious infections. The spectrum is vast, encompassing a plethora of potential culprits, each capable of orchestrating a silent takeover of one's auditory realm.That doesn't sound good: Experts sound alarm on growing population of hearing loss | WGXA
image source: WGXA
Hearing loss can be due to trauma or infection, all sorts can contribute to hearing loss but in some rare cases it can be a tumor in your ear. 90% of patients who have acoustic neuromas, a benign growth on the nerve of the inner ear, have one-sided hearing loss and 80% experience ringing in the ear.

6. Earache

That niggling ache in your ear may seem like a simple discomfort, but its origins can be as diverse as the range of sounds your ears can perceive. If the pain takes residence in the middle of your ear, it might be your body's way of signaling that it's grappling with the seasonal onslaught of allergies or a pesky cold.What Are Ear Infections? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention | Everyday Health
image source: everydayhealth
If you're getting an ache in the middle of your ear, it could be due to allergies or a cold. If it's the outer ear, it could be 'swimmers ear' or an infection due to water or impacted earwax. But pain in the ear can also be from 'referred pain' from elsewhere in the body.

7. "Referred pain"

Referred pain, the elusive trickster of the human body, adds an extra layer of complexity to the enigma of earaches. It's like a cryptic message transmitted through the nerves, leading the sensation of pain away from its origin and depositing it in a seemingly unrelated location – the ears, in this case.File:Red ear syndrome.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
image source: wikimediacommons
Referred pain could be coming from somewhere else in your body like if you're suffering with bad toothache, you might experience earache as well - this is very common. Cellulitis from an infected piercing, a tumor or a sore throat could also be causing the referred pain.

8. Wet, sticky earwax

While the mere mention of earwax might make some cringe, it turns out that this seemingly mundane bodily secretion might be harboring more information than you bargained for. Enter the intriguing research conducted by Japanese scientists who have unearthed a genetic revelation within the earwax narrative.So I've had a chronic ear infection since childhood... (rest in the comments) : r/popping
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Wet, sticky earwax can be a sign that you're at risk of developing cancer. Japanese researchers have isolated a gene they call ABCC11 and a mutation of this gene can mean you're at risk of developing breast cancer. Earwax is a good thing so there's no need to panic, just like everything else on your body - keep an eye on things if they change.

9. Unusually shaped ears

The human body is a marvel of interconnected systems, and sometimes, seemingly unrelated signs on the surface can offer profound insights into the state of internal affairs. Take, for instance, the unassuming ear, a part of the body often associated with hearing.TIL there is a birth deformity called bilateral Stahl's ears which can result in a person being born with elf-like ears : r/todayilearned
image source: reddit
Studies have shown that structural abnormalities of the ear, or skin tags, small fleshy skin growths can be a sign of a potential kidney problem. If newborns exhibit any of these signs, pediatricians are likely to send them for an ultrasound or test them for any other kidney issues.

10. Tinnitus

The symphony of sounds that can manifest in your ears—whether it's a persistent ringing, hissing, roaring, whooshing, or buzzing—unveils a condition known as tinnitus. Far more than a mere auditory annoyance, tinnitus can be a nuanced language through which your body communicates.Ringing in the ears can be avoided or treated, not cured - JMU
image source: jamesmadisonuniversity
Ringing, hissing, roaring, whoosing and buzzing in your ears is basically tinnitus. Tinnitus may be a sign of underlying health issues like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, hormonal changes, Meniere's disease or tumors. It can also be a sign of stress, anxiety and insomnia.

11. Itchy ears

The delicate skin within our ears, often overlooked in our daily hygiene routines, can become a battleground for a duo of unwelcome intruders—eczema and fungus. If you've ever found yourself contending with the incessant itchiness within your ears, these two culprits might be silently orchestrating their presence.My ears are constantly itchy! Like they itch alllll the time. Ever since i was younger too! I'm always pulling out what looks like skin…. Is this ear eczema? : r/earwax
image source: reddit
Have you ever suffered with eczema or fungus? Well, itchy ears is a sign of these two things and if you're experiencing white discharge it's more likely to be fungus. Try not to scratch your ears as this can make the infection worse, just go and seek medical attention to get it sorted out as quickly as possible.

12. Red ears

The human body has an uncanny knack for betraying our internal states, often revealing more than we might consciously intend. Take the simple phenomenon of red ears, for instance – a seemingly innocent change in hue that can speak volumes about what's happening within.does anyone know why my ears look like this? They're completely healed. : r/Stretched
image source: reddit
Red ears can be caused by a bit of sunburn or from embarrassment which will turn your ears a pinkish color. However, if you notice a sudden change, this could indicate hormonal changes associated with menopause or red ear syndrome, which is a condition that may cause migraines or cluster headaches.

13. Numbness

Numbness in the ears is not a sensation we often associate with potential health concerns, but when it arrives accompanied by a constellation of other symptoms, it can become a crucial indicator of underlying issues. The sudden onset of numbness in the ears is like a silent alarm bell signaling potential danger.Sebaceous cyst inside the ear. : r/popping
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One symptom of a stroke is numbness in the ears, especially if the face is drooping, limbs become weak and you're finding it difficult to speak. If the numbness in your ears is cause followed by vertigo, hearing loss or tinnitus you could be suffering from Meniere's disease.

14. Pale color

Our bodies often provide subtle visual cues that can act as early indicators of underlying health issues. In the case of pale ears, it's like a silent canvas revealing a potential deficiency lurking beneath the surface. When your ears appear paler than usual, it can be a visual breadcrumb.skin concerns] inside my ear is basically a mess and Ive been so self conscious lately. What do yall recommend? : r/SkincareAddiction
image source: reddit
If you find that your ears are a bit pale or looking a bit paler than normal, this could be an indication that you have a deficiency. A deficiency in vitamins like C or D can often cause you to have many different health issues and one indicator for this is pale ears.

15. New spots, bumps, moles or scars

Our ears, often overlooked in the sun protection routine, can become unwitting victims of prolonged sun exposure. Those seemingly harmless rays can, over time, leave their mark in the form of spots or moles. While these spots may appear innocuous, treating them with the same vigilance as other areas of the body is crucial.33M) Hard lump behind ear : r/AskDocs
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If your ears are constantly exposed to sunlight and you're not covering them with sunscreen then they might develop little spots or moles which need to be checked out immediately if so. The moles can sometimes look like a little scar but its always important to get any skin changes checked on as most forms of skin cancers are highly treatable with early detection.

16. Fluid

The ears, those unassuming sentinels of sound, can sometimes become the bearers of unexpected messages, especially when clear or bloody fluid decides to make an unscheduled appearance. While it might be tempting to dismiss it as a mere inconvenience, this subtle leakage from the ears can be a telling sign, and understanding its potential causes is key.Five week ear infection finally starting to break up. I sneezed and this popped out. : r/popping
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Clear or bloody fluid coming out from your ears can be a sign of ear infections like Otitis but it can also be an indication of a perforated eardrum. This can be caused by things like hearing a loud noise or changes in pressure. If this is happening to you then go and speak to your doctor to get it checked out.

17. Wrinkles or small holes in the ears

The arrival of a newborn is typically a time of joy and anticipation, but for some infants, their entry into the world might carry subtle markers that hint at potential health concerns. Among these subtle indicators are wrinkles or holes in the ears, seemingly innocuous features.Wrinkly ear. Should I let it close and restart. : r/Stretched
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Infants are often born with wrinkles or holes in their ears which indicate Beckwith-Wiedmann syndrome which can cause serious health problems. One side of the infants body may be larger than the other and they are more susceptible to develop certain tumors.

18. Low ears

Low-set ears, positioned lower than typical on the sides of the head, can sometimes serve as visual indicators of underlying genetic conditions. Among the noteworthy associations with low-set ears are Down syndrome and Turner syndrome, two distinct but impactful genetic disorders.Having small ears sucks sometimes… I love these but idk if I'm going to be able to keep them. : r/headphones
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Two common conditions associated with low ears are Down syndrome and Turner syndromes. People with down syndromes have physical differences and other developmental problems.  Turner syndrome causes problems with the way the neck and head form.

19. An issue with your jaw

The intricate dance of various anatomical components within the head and jaw can sometimes give rise to unexpected symptoms, and pain in the ears can be a perplexing manifestation with a surprising source – the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ acts as a hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull.Can Wisdom Teeth Cause TMJ – Boston Dentist – Congress Dental Group 160 Federal St Floor 1, Boston, MA 02110 (617) 574-8700
image source: congressdentalgroup
Pain in your ears can indicate issues with your jaw. A disorder with the  temporomandibular joint or TMJ, which connects your jaw to the bones that sit in front of each ear can be the reason why people feel pain in their ears. Continuous pain in the ears should be check out by an ENT.

20. You lose your balance frequently

The delicate balance that governs our equilibrium is orchestrated by a seemingly inconspicuous hero—the inner ear. Nestled within the labyrinth of the skull, the inner ear plays a pivotal role in maintaining our balance by sending intricate signals to the brain.Dizziness and Vertigo - Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version
image source: MSDmanuals
Your inner ear canals have a lot to do with your balance, they send signals to your brain to help maintain your balance so if your inner ear gets damaged (hearing loss), then it doesn't send signals to your brain properly. If you keep falling, or find yourself falling more go and get your ears checked at the doctors.

21. Preeclampsia

Pregnancy, while a beautiful and transformative journey, can bring about a myriad of changes to a woman's body. Amid the expected and sometimes unexpected shifts, it's essential to stay attuned to signals that could indicate underlying health concerns.Preeclampsia feet before/after : r/BabyBumps
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Pregnant women can experience preeclampsia. If you're pregnant and you're experiencing tinnitus or strange sounds in your ears then this could be a sign of preeclampsia. Go to your doctor and ask for an audiogram (a hearing test) to check your ear function.

22. Could you have Psoriasis?

The sensation of burning ears can be as mild as a temporary reaction to a change in shampoo or as indicative of a more complex issue, such as certain skin conditions. The skin on our outer ears is susceptible to various environmental factors and can serve as a sensitive barometer.Currently suffering from a double ear infection and haven't been able to sleep, AMA! : r/AMA
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Do you find that your ears are burning? Well, there could be a simple explanation to this...change your shampoo. However, if you notice cracks or bleeding skin on your outer ears you could have a form of psoriasis. This auto immune disease causes your skin to age quicker.

23. No earwax?

Earwax, that seemingly bothersome secretion that prompts many to reach for cotton swabs, is indeed a necessary and protective element for our ears. While its consistency might not win any popularity contests, its role in shielding the ear canal and eardrum is crucial for maintaining ear health.Video Shows 25-Year-Old Earwax Removal
image source: insider
Earwax can be gross and annoying, but its a necessary gross and annoying. Medical News Today explains that annoying wax works as a shield to protect your ear canal and eardrum. But if you find that you don't have any, you could have keratosis obturans.

24. Bleeding ears

The temptation to clean our ears with earbuds can be irresistible, providing a satisfying sensation that often feels like a deep clean. However, the truth is that the delicate architecture of the ear canal is not designed to withstand forceful or invasive cleaning methods.Blood on Q tip : r/medical_advice
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Using earbuds to clean your ears can actually make your ears bleed if you use them too forcefully. But if you insert them way too far down, you could rupture your eardrum which takes about 10 weeks to heal. If it doesn't heal, then you might need surgery to avoid permanent hearing loss.

25. Pus in your ear

The emergence of pus in the ear, a condition known as otorrhea, is indeed a cause for concern. Pus is a sign of infection, and when it occurs behind the eardrum, it can lead to a series of uncomfortable and potentially serious consequences. As pus accumulates behind the eardrum, it exerts pressure on the delicate membrane.Gnarly ear infection slime on baby! I've never seen an ear infection this bad : r/popping
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Pus is never pleasant to deal with, but if you start to develop pus if the eardrum, it could start to push against the eardrum and leak into your ear canal. This could cause dizziness and vertigo if it gets infected and in rare cases, long term hearing loss can occur.

26. Crackling sounds in your ears

The symphony of sounds in our ears, when disrupted by unexpected crackling, can often be attributed to common culprits like colds or sinus infections. However, it's crucial to recognize that crackling sounds in the ears can occasionally have less benign origins, such as the development of polyps or tumors in the nasal passages.Have you ever put hydrogen peroxide in your ear? : r/popping
image source: reddit
Besides a cold and sinus infections, you may hear crackling in your ears due to polyps or tumors that develop in your nose and block the tubes that keep the pressure and fluid in your ears at a steady level. Not to scare anybody, because most cases are harmless, but its always better to get checked out.

27. Ears that feel stuffy

Ah, the familiar discomfort of air pressure changes, especially when soaring through the skies on an airplane. Our ears, particularly the middle ear, are highly sensitive to shifts in pressure, and the experience can range from a minor nuisance to a more pronounced condition known as barotrauma.How to avoid the airplane cold
image source: NBCnews
When you experience a sudden change in air pressure, like when you're on a plane, your middle ear will be affected and can cause pain and a stuffy feeling in your ears. It is possible that the pain can turn into barotrauma (nothing serious) and usually, your hearing will return to normal within a couple of days.

28. Hearing loss & missed safety alerts

The intricate symphony of our daily lives is often taken for granted, and our ears play a pivotal role in this auditory experience. However, it's surprising that only about 20% of people actively seek attention when faced with issues affecting their ears.Reversing hearing loss with regenerative therapy : r/tinnitusresearch
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Only around 20% of people actually seek attention when they're experiencing issues with their ears. But things can become more serious if they're left. Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, people may start to miss things like car alarms, beeps or someone shouting them to look out from harms way.

29. One thick earlobe

Our earlobes, often overlooked in the tapestry of our daily health assessments, can occasionally serve as visual indicators of underlying issues. The emergence of thickness in the earlobes, particularly when accompanied by additional symptoms, might indeed be signaling an underlying concern.Earlobe suddenly thick and looking like this? Any help? : r/piercing
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Thick earlobes can be a sign of infection, especially if the earlobe is red, warm or tender to touch. If you have any of these symptoms you may be suffering with allergies. Whether it be food or jewellery that you've been wearing, make sure to get this checked out.

30. Hearing loss & diabetes

The intricate connection between hearing health and diabetes remains a subject of ongoing research, but experts like Seth Schwartz, MD, suggest that the link likely involves the intricate dance of blood supply to the inner ear. Diabetes can set off a chain of events.How long we living? How long did type 1 diabetics you've known live? I've only known 1 other and he just passed away at 74. Not bad! : r/diabetes
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"We don't know exactly what the link is between hearing loss and diabetes, but it probably has to do with blood supply to the inner ear," says Seth Schwartz, MD. Metabolic changes can be toxic to the inner ear, especially when the disease isn't dealt with properly.

31. And Now.. Things Your Face Says About Your Health! Yellowish Eyes/Skin? It Could Be Jaundice

The sudden appearance of a yellow hue on the skin or the whites of the eyes is a visual cue that demands attention, signaling potential issues with the liver. This yellowing phenomenon, known as jaundice, is a manifestation of an underlying imbalance in the body's normal processes.
image source: reddit.com
If your skin, or the whites of your eyes, have turned yellow in color, this is a sign that there are issues with your liver - and it's very often jaundice. Jaundice comes as a result of too much of the waste product used when your body breaks down red blood cells.

32. You Have Moles

Moles, those small, pigmented spots on the skin, can often evoke concern due to their association with skin cancer. While vigilance is important, it's essential to recognize that not all moles are ominous, and many are harmless skin features that will remain the same.
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Moles are very much associated with cancer, which is why you should always get them checked out, but there are also lots of moles that can be nothing more than skin tags. The key things to look for are whether your moles stay looking the same, or if they get any bigger/change color.

33. Sores Around Your Mouth

Ah, the familiar tingling sensation around the lips that signals the impending arrival of a cold sore—a nuisance that seems to have a knack for making frequent appearances. The culprit behind this recurrent annoyance is none other than the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
image source: reddit.com
It's very likely that sores around your lips will be a cold sore. The pesky thing about cold sores is that if you're prone to them, they can happen all the time. Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus - which can actually affect you as a child through saliva, rather than through sexual contact as an adult!

34. Cracked Lips

Ah, the delicate skin of the lips, susceptible to a myriad of woes from cold sores to painful cracks and dryness. While the change in weather, especially exposure to cold and dry conditions, is a common culprit for parched lips, it's important to recognize that other factors may also be at play.
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When you're not battling with a cold sore, you might instead have painful and dry cracked lips. This can often come from cold weather and a change in temperature. But cracked lips, if you're certain it's not the cold causing it, can also be a sign of dehydration or allergies.

35. You Have A Butterfly Rash

The distinctive rash you're referring to, often described as spreading across the cheeks like the wings of a butterfly with the midpoint on the nose, is indeed a significant sign that should prompt attention and medical evaluation. This particular rash is a characteristic feature of lupus.
image source: reddit.com
This rash is very unique, and it's an important one to look out for. Its name comes from the spreading across the cheeks like the wings of a butterfly, with the mid point on the nose. This rash can actually be a sign of lupus, an immune system disease, so speak to your doctor if you have this rash.

36. Hair Growing Where You Don't Want It

The presence of a few stray hairs, whether it's the occasional unruly nose or ear hair for men or a lone facial hair for women, is a common and usually inconsequential occurrence. However, when women notice an increase in the growth of facial hair it can be a cause for concern.
image source: reddit.com
For men, this isn't too much of an issue - though too much nose and ear hair can of course be a pain. For a woman, it can be a cause for concern when you're suddenly sprouting those pesky moustache or beard hairs. Normally, a few hairs are nothing to worry about - but if you're getting a lot, it can be a sign of polycystic ovary syndrome.

37. Your Eyelids Are Drooping

The subtle dance of our eyelids, usually synchronized in their movements, can sometimes reveal subtle but significant clues about our health. While the occasional drooping eyelid after a night of insufficient sleep might be attributed to fatigue, sudden and unexplained drooping can be a signal of a more serious underlying issue.
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We don't mean because you're tired - if you have one eyelid (or both) that's drooping, it can often be a sign of issues with the brain or nerves, which is often harmless. If you suddenly have a drooping eyelid out of nowhere though - rather than something you've always had - get emergency help.

38. You Can't Move One Side Of Your Face

The sudden inability to move one side of your face can be a distressing and unexpected experience. When faced with this symptom, particularly if it occurs without any other changes or neurological symptoms, it may be indicative of a condition known as Bell's Palsy.
image source: reddit.com
You should always get medical attention if you can't move a part of your body. But if you can't move one side of your face, and this is the only symptom you have without any other changes, it can be a sign of something called Bell's Palsy, which can make the face muscles weak.

39. Or You Have Face Paralysis With Other Symptoms

When a person experiences the sudden onset of symptoms such as facial drooping or paralysis, slurred speech, weakness in the arms or legs, and dizziness, it could be indicative of a potential stroke. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted.
image source: facialpalsyuk.com
This is when we're moving into potential stroke territory. This happens when blood flow is cut off to part of your brain. This can result in one side of your face drooping or paralyzed, and is then accompanied by slurred speech, weakness in arms or leg and dizziness.

40. Yellow Spots On Your Eyelids

The appearance of little yellow-white bumps on the eyelids, known as xanthelasma, may not pose an immediate health threat, but it can serve as a visual cue warranting further investigation. These small spots are not just random occurrences; they are actually composed of cholesterol deposits.
image source: reddit.com
If you've noticed little yellow-white bumps on your eyelids, either your upper or lower, this could be xanthelasmata, which isn't a dangerous health condition, but can be a sign of other issues, so it's always worth checking out. The small spots are made of cholesterol.

41. Your Eyes Are Puffy

Ah, the battle against puffy eyes—a common woe for many, especially in our modern, fast-paced lives where a good night's sleep can sometimes feel elusive. While occasional puffiness may indeed be attributed to a lack of sleep, chronic or persistent under-eye swelling can have various underlying causes.
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Everybody gets puffy eyes every once in a while, because we know how tough it is to sleep these days. But if you have chronic puffy eyes, caused by fluid pooling under your eyes, it can be caused by a few different things (including lack of sleep): hormone changes, salty foods and hot weather.

42. Grey-Brown Patches Of Skin

The appearance of grey-brown patches on the face, a condition known as melasma, can be a source of concern for many individuals. Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by hyperpigmented areas, often occurring on the face, and it can have various triggers.
image source: reddit.com
Grey-brown patches of skin on your face is known as melasma, and it can be triggered by a few different things. Pregnancy hormones could trigger it, while birth control pills can also have an effect. It can therefore be short-term, and facial treatments can help to ease it.

43. Facial Hair Loss

The loss of hair on the face, particularly in areas such as the eyebrows or eyelashes, can be a distressing experience. One potential cause for this type of hair loss is a condition known as alopecia, specifically a form called alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder.
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If you're losing hair on your face, such as eyebrow hair or eyelashes, it can be a symptom of alopecia - this is when your immune system messes up and starts attacking your hair follicles, causing hair loss. To tackle this, your doctor should be able to prescribe things to help.

44. Dark Panda Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes can indeed be a frustrating cosmetic concern, and while they are often attributed to factors like lack of sleep or genetic predisposition, it's important to be aware that they can sometimes serve as indicators of underlying health issues.
image source: allure.com
Dark circles under the eyes are always a pain, especially when you're making sure you get enough sleep. For the most part, dark circles can be harmless and sometimes a condition passed down through genes - but in some cases, dark eye circles could be a sign of chronic kidney problems.

45. A Sudden Loss Of Vision

Sudden and severe headaches, commonly referred to as thunderclap headaches, are indeed symptoms that should not be taken lightly. While there can be benign causes, it's crucial to be aware that these headaches can sometimes be indicative of serious underlying conditions that require immediate medical attention.
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Obviously this one shouldn't be taken lightly, unless you've poked yourself in the eye or ducked your head in the swimming pool! At best it could be a very bad migraine - at worst, it can be a sign of an impending stroke, or other issues to do with the brain not getting blood flow.

46. Bulging Eyes

Bulging eyes, a condition known as exophthalmos, can indeed be a significant symptom associated with Graves' disease. Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the thyroid gland, leading to an overproduction of thyroid hormones.
image source: reddit.com
If you've noticed that your eyes are swollen to the point that they're actually bulging outward, this could be a symptom of a health condition called Grave's disease. As well as bulging eyes protruding out of the socket, they may also feel dry, red and itchy as a result.

47. A Ring In Your Eyes

The presence of a grey-white ring around the outer edge of the cornea, known as an arcus senilis or arcus lipoides, can indeed be associated with high cholesterol levels. This condition is often observed in individuals under 40 years old and is more common in older individuals.
image source: myopticoptometry.com
If you've noticed a grey-white ring around the pupil of your eye - and you're under 40 years old - this can be a symptom that you have high cholesterol. The ring is caused by fat deposits which create the ring in the eye as result. You might have a complete ring, or a partial ring.

48. Or Your Eyes Are Twitching Like Crazy

Eye twitches, also known as myokymia, are indeed common and often benign, with stress and excessive caffeine consumption being among the typical triggers. These twitches usually involve involuntary, repetitive contractions of the muscles around the eye and are generally harmless.
image source: wbkr.com
Eye twitches are usually completely harmless - we all get them from time to time, right? A lot of the time, eye twitches can be caused by stress, or excess caffeine consumption. But in rare cases, the twitches might be your body telling you there's an issue with your nervous system.

49. Spots Along Your Jawline

Absolutely, the location of acne breakouts can sometimes provide insights into underlying health issues. Acne along the jawline, in particular, may be associated with hormonal changes or imbalances. The jawline is a common area for hormonal acne, especially in women.
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Acne is always a pain, no matter where it is on the face, but did you know that position of spots can actually indicate how your health is doing? If you have a lot of spots along your jawline specifically, this could be a sign of changes in hormones, or a hormone imbalance.

50. Receding Chin

A receding chin, along with a thick neck and a small jaw, can indeed be physical characteristics associated with a condition known as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or instances of shallow or infrequent breathing during sleep.
image source: reddit.com
If there's anything people don't want to hear when they get older, it's 'receding'. If you've noticed a receding chin, along with thick neck and small jaw, this could be a sign that you have sleep apnoea. This is when you stop breathing when you sleep for a short time, resulting in snoring and other health problems.