High blood pressure (hypertension) has the potential to harm the eyes, resulting in conditions such as hypertensive retinopathy and optic neuropathy. To safeguard your vision, it is essential to manage your blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and medication, undergo regular eye examinations to identify issues at an early stage, and remain vigilant for symptoms like abrupt changes in vision.
How high blood pressure affects eyes
How high blood pressure impacts the eyes
• Damage to blood vessels: Elevated blood pressure can injure the tiny blood vessels within the retina, leading to swelling, bleeding, or blockages.
• Hypertensive retinopathy: This condition arises when high blood pressure affects the blood vessels in the retina, which may result in vision impairment if not addressed.
• Optic neuropathy: High blood pressure can inflict damage on the optic nerve, which is vital for maintaining vision.
• Eye stroke: In extreme cases, high blood pressure may obstruct an artery that supplies blood to the retina, causing a sudden and painless loss of vision in one eye.
• Heightened risk of additional conditions: It can also elevate the likelihood of developing other eye disorders, including glaucoma and macular degeneration.
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Eye care for high blood pressure
• Schedule routine eye examinations: A thorough eye examination is the most vital measure. An ophthalmologist is capable of identifying early indications of damage prior to the onset of any symptoms.
• Keep track of blood pressure: Collaborate with your physician to maintain your blood pressure within a standard range, preferably below
• Embrace a healthy lifestyle:
• Nutrition: Consume a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while minimizing sodium, caffeine, and alcohol intake.
• Physical activity: Strive for a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week.
• Cease smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure and ocular damage.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can adversely affect blood pressure, making it essential to find effective management strategies.
• Notify your eye doctor: Inform your eye care professional about your high blood pressure so they can monitor your ocular health more diligently.
• Recognize symptoms: Consult an eye specialist promptly if you notice vision loss, double vision, or any other sudden changes.
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Other considerations
• Certain eye drops: Exercise caution when using 10% phenylephrine eye drops, particularly if you suffer from high blood pressure, as they may lead to a considerable rise in blood pressure.
• Sudden subconjunctival hemorrhage: Should you observe a sudden, vivid red spot on the sclera of your eye (a subconjunctival hemorrhage), it is crucial to have your blood pressure evaluated.
