Hypertension is a common condition that is better known as high blood pressure. The increased pressure places stress on blood vessels that travel throughout the body and can lead to a host of different complications. This includes trouble within the eye. Among the most common issues that results from high blood pressure is hypertensive retinopathy.
Hypertension
This condition is diagnosed, typically, in people whose blood pressure is measured at 140/90 or higher. The accepted normal for the human body is 120/80. There are several factors that come into play, which can cause hypertension. These include the levels of water and sodium in the body at any given time. Also issues with the kidneys, nervous system, or other blood vessel related complications can cause a spike in blood pressure. A person at risk for high blood pressure, due to a family history, smoking, or one of the issues previously mentioned, should have it monitored regularly. Blood pressure cuffs are sold at most drug stores for self-testing.
As a person ages, his or her body undergoes many changes. Included on the long list is a stiffening of the blood vessels. This is a natural occurrence, but it also leads to higher blood pressure readings, which is why it is more common to see hypertension in adults. Obesity, stress, frequent alcohol consumption, and diets high in salt can increase one’s chances of developing hypertension. Unfortunately, this condition, which rarely has noticeable symptoms, can be the cause of several severe health problems, including heart disease, kidney malfunctions, and significant loss of vision.
Hypertensive Retinopathy
The increased stress on blood vessels in the eye can cause severe complications. Typically, the portion of the eye most impacted by hypertension is the retina. This is the area of the eye that absorbs the light images that pass through the lens of the eye. The information received by the retina is sent to the brain, so the world around the person can be clearly detected. When pressure in the retina’s blood vessels build, they can begin to ooze. This can result in swelling and blood pools that drastically reduce the retina’s ability to function properly. An ophthalmologist can test for the condition rather easily, using a special dye and camera to capture images of the retinal area.
A person with this condition will frequently complain of headaches and vision problems. This vision loss is not something that can be treated with Lasik Austin. It is the blood at the back of the eye that is distorting images perceived by the brain. Unfortunately, the only way to treat the condition is to get the person’s blood pressure under control. Therefore, the best way to prevent this condition is to treat any signs of hypertension immediately. This will likely mean changes in diet and lifestyle. Healthy eating habits, including a reduction in salt intake are a great first step. Exercise, quitting cigarettes, and lessening alcohol intake can also make a huge difference for a person diagnosed with hypertension. A doctor might also prescribe a daily medication to reduce the pressure within blood vessels and lessen this risk of hypertensive retinopathy, as well as the many other health conditions that can arise.
Hill Country Eye Center
12171 W Parmer Lane Ste 201
Cedar Park, TX 78613
(512) 528-1144
