Happy National Different Colored Eyes Day!

Observed every July 12, we dedicate this day to celebrating the phenomenon that is heterochromia — specifically, heterochromia iridum. It’s a fun and meaningful way to appreciate the uniqueness of different colored eyes. Here are a few ways to help our heterochromia friends feel loved:

• Learn about heterochromia iridum! Unique as it is, some people may feel subconscious about their different colored eyes. Consider researching the causes, types, and its history.
• Spread awareness about today! Post facts, trivia, or personal stories involving heterochromia–just remember to get permission from loved ones if the stories involve them in any way. You could use hashtags like #DifferentColoredEyesDay, #Heterochromia, or #HeterochromiaIridum and join the conversations.
• Show appreciation for our different colored eyes friends! If you know someone with heterochromia, consider showing them extra love and appreciation today. Compliment their unique eye colors, spend time together, anything to show you care and appreciate them.

Remember, the goal of celebrating National Different Colored Eyes Day is to embrace and appreciate the beauty of diversity. Whether you have heterochromia yourself or simply want to support and acknowledge those who do, your participation can help create awareness and foster inclusivity.

The Facts

What is heterochromia iridum? It’s a variation of eye color in an individual. In most cases, that person has two different colored irises. This phenomenon allows them to have a blue left eye and brown right eye, or any other combination of colors. However, having two entirely different eye colors isn’t the only result.

There are three types of heterochromia a person can experience.

• Complete heterochromia: As described above, this appears as the eyes being different colors–one eye is blue, the other is brown.
• Sectoral heterochromia: Part of one iris has a different color or a distinct patch of a different color. This can result in a striking and unique appearance. For example, a brown iris could have a patch of green in it.
• Central heterochromia: The inner part of the iris has a different color compared to the outer part, leading to a ring or gradient effect. An example could involve gradients of blue, making it feel like you’re staring into the Peyto Lake in Alberta, Canada.

Causes for Heterochromia

According to the National Library of Medicine, people can inherit heterochromia. It can also occur spontaneously due to genetic changes. However, people can acquire different colored eyes beyond genetic factors, including:

• Developmental factors: Sometimes disruptions or abnormalities occur when the iris develops during fetal growth. These factors can lead to variations in pigment distribution or melanin concentration, resulting in different colored eyes.
• Eye trauma or injury: Later in life, heterochromia can develop due to damage. Changes in the blood vessels or structures in the eye can also alter eye color.
• Diseases or conditions: Eye diseases or conditions can cause heterochromia as a secondary effect. Examples include glaucoma, Horner’s syndrome, or uveitis. These conditions can affect the functioning of the iris or the production and distribution of eye pigments.
• Medications or treatments: Some medications or treatments, such as certain eye drops or medications used for glaucoma, may cause changes in eye color or contribute to heterochromia.

However, remember that not all heterochromia cases associate with underlying health issues. Some instances have proven different colored eyes as benign and purely cosmetic with no hint of medical significance.

If you or someone you know has concerns about eye color or changes in eye color, consider consulting with an eye care professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Heterochromia: A History

The exact time when people discovered heterochromia iridum remains a mystery. However, we know that our ancestors have observed and documented it since ancient times. Over the centuries, various cultures have mentioned people having different colored eyes, even depicting them in ancient artwork and literature.

Heterochromia has fascinated and intrigued people for centuries, especially because it appeared in people and animals. However, reactions to different colored eyes vary between cultures and time periods.

Here are some general insights into how people in the past may have reacted to heterochromia:

1. Folklore and beliefs: Heterochromia often sparked myths, folklore, and superstitions in many cultures. Some believed it was a sign of special powers, mystical abilities, or divine connection. People have viewed them as unique or revered them due to their distinctive appearance.
2. Symbolism and aesthetics: Sometimes, different colored eyes were associated with beauty, uniqueness, or rarity. Certain cultures considered them more attractive or captivating, often extending to artistic representations and depictions in literature with heterochromia portrayed as an intriguing and desirable trait.
3. Stigma and discrimination: Some societies viewed heterochromia with stigma or discrimination due to perceived differences. Such views led to curiosity, prejudice, or even fear or suspicion. Such reactions depended on prevailing beliefs, cultural norms, and levels of understanding within communities.

Today, we appreciate heterochromia for its uniqueness and many consider it aesthetically appealing. However, individual experiences and cultural contexts may still vary.

Let’s Celebrate

National Different Colored Eyes Day is a remarkable time that invites us to celebrate and embrace the beauty of heterochromia. It’s a day to honor and appreciate individuals with captivating dual eye colors, a truly extraordinary trait.

Let’s celebrate the diversity of eye colors and extend our admiration to those with heterochromia. Join the festivities, spread awareness, and show your support. Embrace the magic of heterochromia and celebrate National Different Colored Eyes Day with joy and appreciation!