High blood pressure is something that affects a large number of adults in this country and beyond; part of the reason for that is the change that blood vessels undergo as a person ages. They can become more rigid, which causes the pressure of blood surging through them to increase.

The accepted baseline for blood pressure today is 120/80, however a person isn’t considered to have hypertension until his or her count reaches 140/90. When it does reach this point or higher, then the risk of associated complications increases substantially and medical professionals will recommend a treatment plan that generally includes a change in diet, lifestyle, and a daily medication to keep blood pressure at a more acceptable level.

There are many complications that can arise as a result of high blood pressure, including heart disease, a leading killer in this country. However, the eyes are also greatly impacted by increased pressure in the blood vessels. Due to the fact that vessels at the back of the eye are so tiny, they are very susceptible to spikes in pressure.

There are three particular eye conditions that can appear as a result of uncontrolled hypertension. They are hypertensive retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage, and optic neuropathy. Though other problems can arise, these are three very commonly seen difficulties in patients of hypertension.

Hypertensive Retinopathy

Unfortunately, this condition can remain hidden for quite some time without showing any noticeable symptoms. However, the damage to the blood vessels at the back of the eye, leads to leakage into the retina and the macula. These areas contain the receptors responsible for collecting the messages to be sent to the brain. The bleeding and formation of new, irregular vessels can interrupt this signal and result in vision loss.

There is no way to treat this disorder, but it can be prevented or stopped with proper treatment of the underlying condition – hypertension. If the blood pressure levels are managed, then the vessels won’t experience the stress and will stay intact.

Vitreous Hemorrhage

Before light can reach the retina at the back of the eye, it must pass through a gel-like substance known as the vitreous. This normally transparent substance can become opaque when vessels bleed into it or around it. That is to say that the light will not be able to pass through, resulting in sudden vision loss. The person experiencing this is likely to notice the sudden blurring, light flashes, or floaters.

The bad news is that this condition cannot be corrected by an opthamologist, however, the symptoms are typically temporary, as the eye will correct the issue on its own, as long as the hypertension is controlled, so more bleeding does not occur.

Optic Neuropathy

When the bleeding or new blood vessels begin to negatively impact the nerves that transmit signals to the brain, the condition is referred to optic neuropathy. Although, this phrase is applied to any damage occurring to the optic nerve, regardless of the cause. This cannot be reversed, but further damage can be prevented if the hypertension is managed.

Broberg Eye Care
207 James Casey St # 305
Austin, TX 78745-1193
(512) 447-6096