
What is the definition of hypertensive retinopathy?
Systemic hypertension damages the retina and the retinal circulation (blood vessels) (i.e. high blood pressure). Patients with hypertensive retinopathy will have almost no visual symptoms until they have severe vision loss. They commonly complain of a headache or blurred vision. Hypertension can cause ocular and cranial neuropathies by causing damage to the choroidal circulation. Subconjunctival hemorrhages are another symptom of hypertension.

What are the effects of hypertension on the eyes?
A systolic pressure greater than 140 mm Hg or diastolic pressure greater than 90 mm Hg is considered systemic hypertension. The majority of eye problems are linked to systolic blood pressures above 160 mm Hg. All organs in the body with small blood arteries, such as the retina and kidney, are affected by hypertension. Raised blood pressure has the greatest impact on smaller blood vessels. Hypertensive retinopathy is characterized by diffuse arteriolar narrowing, which occurs as a result of vascular constriction in acute hypertension and increased cholesterol in chronic hypertension.
Aside from Retinopathy, there are other symptoms of hypertension
In severe hypertension, particularly in young hypertensives, hypertension is associated with several other types of manifestations such as Branch Retinal vein/artery occlusion, Central Retinal vein/artery occlusion, Optic disc edema, and Macular star. Pregnant females with malignant hypertension are known as Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia. Both of these conditions can lead to Exudative Retinal Detachment.
Preventive measures:
- Controlling your blood pressure is the first step in treating hypertensive retinopathy.
- Check your blood pressure regularly.
- Once you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension, obtain a baseline eye/retinal examination.
- Do not stop taking your hypertension medications without first consulting your doctor.
- To maintain control, eat a well-balanced diet. Blood pressure is a measurement of how high or low.
