
Hypertensive retinopathy
29 June 2023
Hypertensive retinopathy is an eye complication caused by chronic, uncontrolled high blood pressure. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, exerts excessive force on blood vessels, which can cause damage to different organs in the body, including the eyes.
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. It is responsible for capturing light and transmitting visual signals to the brain via the optic nerve. When blood pressure remains elevated for prolonged periods of time, the retinal blood vessels can become damaged, leading to hypertensive retinopathy.
Hypertensive retinopathy can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the degree of damage to the retinal blood vessels. In the early stages, there may be no obvious symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, signs such as blurred vision, dark spots in the visual field, decreased visual acuity and even vision loss may emerge.
The diagnosis of hypertensive retinopathy is made through a complete ophthalmologic examination. The ophthalmologist will examine the fundus to assess the condition of the retinal blood vessels. Additional tests, such as fluorescein angiography, may also be performed to obtain more detailed images of the retinal blood vessels.
It is important to note that hypertensive retinopathy not only affects vision, but can also be an indicator of widespread damage to the body's blood vessels. People with hypertensive retinopathy are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications, such as heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.
Proper management of hypertensive retinopathy involves controlling blood pressure effectively. Lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing salt and alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking, are key to keeping blood pressure under control.
Treatment of hypertensive retinopathy focuses primarily on blood pressure control and management of associated complications. Each case is unique and treatment may vary according to the severity of the disease and the patient's individual needs.