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The dangers of high blood pressure are well documented and most people will associate this condition with heart and kidney problems but there is also considerable risk to a patients eyesight and the danger of eye disease is just as high. Blood vessels in the retina can be damaged due to hypertension more commonly called hypertensive retinopathy. If left untreated the damage to the eye can be very serious.
It is unlikely that you will notice symptoms and more often it will be picked up by your optician on a routine eye examination.
The Symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy can include:
- Headaches
- Vision problems
In order for the condition to be diagnosed an optician will use an ophthalmoscope, which is an instrument that will project light to examine the back of your eyeball. The optican will be looking for:
- Narrowing of blood vessels
- Fluid oozing from the blood vessels
- Spots on the retina exudates
- Swelling of the macula and the optic disc
- Areas of haemorrhage in the eye
If it is discovered that the patient has signs of hypertensive retinopathy the most important factor for treatment is to adequately control your blood pressure.
Obviously long term prevention is preferential, and you can ensure this by keeping your blood pressure in control and also by watching what you eat, making changes to your diet and taking more exercise. If you have been prescribed with medication for high blood pressure then ensure you medicate as prescribed.
Its important that you see your doctor on a regular basis for follow-up care and keep regular eye appointments.