Understanding Hypertensive Retinopathy
Hypertensive retinopathy is a condition where high blood pressure (hypertension) causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, this can lead to vision problems and, in severe cases, permanent vision loss
How Does High Blood Pressure Affect the Eyes?
Chronic high blood pressure can cause the retinal blood vessels to become thickened, narrowed, or damaged. This affects blood flow to the retina and may lead to swelling, bleeding, or even detachment of the retina in advanced cases
Healthy Eye
Early Damage
Severe/ Hypertensive Crisis
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Blurred vision
- Reduced or dimmed vision
- Headaches
- Double vision
- Sudden loss of vision (in severe cases)
Vision Damage from Hypertensive Retinopathy
Prevention and Management:
- Control Blood Pressure: Keep your blood pressure within the target range as advised by your doctor
- Healthy Diet: Eat a diet low in salt, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Regular Exercise: Stay physically active to help lower blood pressure
- Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and worsens hypertension
- Monitor Eye Health: Schedule regular eye exams, especially if you have hypertension
Who’s at Risk?
- People with uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Individuals with a long history of hypertension
- Those with co-existing conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol
- Smokers
- Older adults
For more information, please visit the following websites:
aao.org
eyewiki.com
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