High Blood Pressure and Eye Disease
Along with causing heart and kidney problems, untreated high blood pressure can also affect your eyesight and lead to eye disease. Hypertension can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the area at the back of the eye where images focus. This eye disease is known as hypertensive retinopathy. The damage can be serious if hypertension is not treated.
What Are the Symptoms of Hypertensive Retinopathy?
A person typically won't experience symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy; it is usually discovered during a routine eye exam. However, symptoms might include headaches and vision problems.
How Is Hypertensive Retinopathy Diagnosed?
An eye care professional can diagnose hypertensive retinopathy. Using an ophthalmoscope, an instrument that projects light to examine the back of the eyeball, the doctor will look for signs of retinopathy that include:
- Narrowing of blood vessels
- Fluid oozing from the blood vessels
- Spots on the retina known as cotton wool spots and exudates
- Swelling of the macula (the central area of the retina) and optic nerve
- Bleeding in the back of the eye
How Is Hypertensive Retinopathy Treated?
The best way to treat hypertensive retinopathy is to adequately control your blood pressure.
Can Hypertensive Retinopathy Be Prevented?
To prevent hypertensive retinopathy, keep your blood pressure under control by reaching and maintaining your optimal weight, sticking with a diet recommended by your physician, exercising regularly, and faithfully taking your high blood pressure medications as prescribed. In addition, see your doctor on a regular basis for follow-up care.