Hypertensive Retinopathy

Hypertensive retinopathy is the damage that elevated and sustained blood pressure causes to the small blood vessels of the retina, the layer at the back of the eye that makes sight possible. In many cases, it reflects the effect of hypertension on the entire body.

How it may be noticed: it often causes no symptoms in early stages; when it progresses, blurred vision or visual disturbances may appear. That is why it is usually detected during an examination of the back of the eye.

Who evaluates it? The ophthalmologist examines the retina and assesses the degree of involvement. Keeping blood pressure under control and attending periodic ophthalmologic checkups with a professional helps monitor visual health in time.