High blood pressure or hypertension puts you at risk of heart disease, stroke and even vision loss. Around 85 million people suffer from this condition in the United States.
In this post, Park Slope eye care specialists discuss the link between high blood pressure and vision loss.
Eye Conditions Caused by High Blood Pressure
The eyes contain many small blood vessels, which is why having high blood pressure can lead to various eye-related complications. Below are eye conditions that can develop due to hypertension.
1. Retinopathy or Blood Vessel Damage
This disease is due to a lack of blood flow to the retina. It may lead to blurry vision or complete eyesight loss. Patients who have diabetes and high blood pressure are at higher risk of developing blood vessel damage.
2. Choroidopathy or Fluid Buildup Under the Retina
Fluid buildup under the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, may cause distorted vision and scarring that affects vision.
3. Optic Neuropathy or Nerve Damage
Blocked blood flow ca damage the optic nerve and can kill the eye’s nerve cells, which may lead to temporary or permanent vision impairment.
Hypertension is one of the major causes of stroke, which can damage the optic nerve or affect the area of the brain that processes images. Visit your eye doctor if you’re experiencing any eye discomfort or vision problems.
Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure
Simple changes can help you manage your blood pressure. Lifestyle adjustments are the first line of treatment for hypertension. Hypertensive patients are advised to spend at least 30 minutes engaging in activities like walking, jogging, cycling or swimming at least five times a week. Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Avoid smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol, which can raise blood pressure.
If you have hypertension, visit your eye doctor for regular eye exams to monitor your vision and eye health. We specialize in Park Slope family eye care and vision therapy. Call us today at (347) 380-7070 and learn more about our services. We assist patients in Brooklyn, NY.
