The human body is a complex and interconnected system. Every part of the body, including organs, tissues, and cells, relies on and influences other parts in various ways. For example, the circulatory system, which includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood, transports oxygen and nutrients to all the cells in the body, including the eyes. That said, uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This condition is known as hypertensive retinopathy. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Jay Shah, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad, discusses how hypertension affects the eyes and the symptoms to watch out for.
Also Read: How Often Should You Check Your Blood Pressure: Tips To Measure It Accurately
Understanding Hypertensive Retinopathy
“High blood pressure can lead to serious eye conditions, such as hypertensive retinopathy, where the blood vessels in the retina become damaged,” said Dr Shah, adding, “High blood pressure can cause signs such as retinal haemorrhages, cotton wool spots, and narrowed arteries.” However, the doctor says that these signs may not only be exclusive to high blood pressure but can also be caused by other conditions.
According to Mayo Clinic, high blood pressure can also cause fluid build under the retina, also called choroidopathy. It can cause symptoms such as distorted vision or sometimes scarring that impairs vision. In addition, nerve damage, or optic neuropathy can occur, leading to bleeding within the eye or vision loss.
Hypertensive retinopathy is relatively common among individuals with high blood pressure, particularly those with long-standing and poorly controlled hypertension. According to a study published in the Saudi Medical Journal, the prevalence rate of retinopathy in patients suffering from mild hypertension was 25.3%, moderate hypertension was 34.5% and severe hypertension 84.6%.
Signs Of High BP In Your Eyes
Some of the common symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy include:
- Vision changes
- Eye floaters, which are dark spots or lines that appear to drift across the field of vision
- Flashes of light or a sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Headaches
- Eye discomfort
Other Symptoms Of Hypertension
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it typically does not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as blood pressure rises to more severe levels, some individuals may experience certain symptoms. These can include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fatigue or weakness
According to Dr Shah, early detection and management of high blood pressure can preserve both ocular and overall health.
Bottomline
It's important to note that the above-mentioned symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so it is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis from a healthcare professional. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to have it measured using a blood pressure cuff. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended, especially for individuals with risk factors such as obesity, family history of hypertension, or a sedentary lifestyle. If you experience any of the above symptoms or have concerns about your blood pressure, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
