How Having High Blood Pressure Can Affect Your Eyesight
You May Be Able to Blame Your High Blood Pressure for Your Bad Eyesight
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is widely known as a major contributing factor to heart disease. However, heart disease isn’t the only problem high blood pressure can cause. In fact, one of the most valuable senses you have at your disposal can be put at significant risk due to complications from high blood pressure.
Hypertensive Retinopathy
Hypertensive retinopathy – it sounds like an intimidating word, doesn’t it? Well it should. Hypertensive retinopathy is a condition characterized by damage to the retinal blood vessels, and high blood pressure can cause it. This is the reason why it is so important to check for high blood pressure on a regular basis and to treat it the moment it presents itself.
Symptoms of Hypertensive Retinopathy
Symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy can include headaches and vision problems, and if blood pressure is left untreated, the damage can be very serious. Healthy vision depends on a normal supply of blood to the eyes via blood vessels. The wear and tear on blood vessels caused by high blood pressure is a cause for concern.
The vascular structure of your eye is really no different than other parts of your body. Blood vessels that are repeatedly and rapidly exposed to circulating blood become damaged. In your eyes, this damage comes in the form of reduced vision and, eventually, blindness.
There’s No Going Back
The eye damage caused by high blood pressure is usually permanent and irreversible. Because of this, treating high blood pressure should be a top priority. In some cases medication may be necessary and your doctor will be able to provide you with guidance on your particular situation.
If you suspect you have high blood pressure, let your doctor know about your concerns. If you have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, make sure to follow a healthy diet and take your medication as prescribed. High blood pressure can have serious health consequences. However, if treated, high blood pressure does not have to cause irreversible damage.