Heterochromia is a genetic condition in which a person's eyes each have a different colour. In most cases, it's simply a physical characteristic that does not impact ocular health. More rarely, it's a side-effect of illness or trauma. In such cases, diagnosis and treatment are required to address the underlying cause of heterochromia. How is heterochromia diagnosed and treated? Our professionals have the answers.
Why do some people have two differently coloured eyes?
Not many people have "heterochromia" or "heterochromia iridis," which is eyes of different colours. The iris of each eye has a distinct hue. The two irises vary in shade and sometimes even in colour.
Less than 1% of the population is estimated to have differently coloured eyes. In most cases, the origin is genetic, and the difference in eye colour is mainly due to variations in the production and distribution of melanin. Melanin is the natural pigment responsible for the colour of your skin and iris.
Less commonly, heterochromia can appear late in a person's life. This is known as acquired heterochromia. It can be caused by, among other things:
When heterochromia appears later in life, it's important to consult your optometrist for a diagnosis. The change in the colour of your eyes may indicate the presence of an underlying health problem.
How is heterochromia diagnosed?
There are different symptoms of heterochromia. This is why it is classified into 3 different categories:
- Complete heterochromia: Where both eyes have a different colour. Think of Jane Seymour's unusual eyes.
- Central heterochromia: Where the center of the iris has a different colour from the rest of the iris.
- Sectoral heterochromia: Where only part of the iris has a different colour from the rest of the eye. It usually appears as an irregular patch on the iris.
Heterochromia is diagnosed by an eye care professional, such as your optometrist or ophthalmologist. In addition to observing your eyes, the optometrist or ophthalmologist will perform an eye exam. You may also be asked questions about your medical and family medical history.
Please note that if you have any doubts or concerns about the appearance of your eyes, we advise you to discuss them with eye care professionals. Only specialists can make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate recommendations when necessary.
How is heterochromia treated?
Heterochromia is generally present from birth. And in this case, it's not considered a pathological condition since it doesn't affect vision. As a result, heterochromia often does not need to be treated.
If there is an underlying problem, in the event of acquired heterochromia, it is the cause of the change in eye colour that specialists will treat.
If you've got differently coloured eyes and want to have both eyes the same colour, coloured contact lenses are a good solution. Talk to your optometrist or our opticians in one of our IRIS stores.
