Hypertensive Retinopathy

Commonly referred to as the “silent killer,” hypertension is a disease that can slowly damage various organ systems such as the heart, the brain, the kidneys, and the eyes as well. Hypertension can damage the micro-vascular system in the eyes and potentially contribute to the development of severe eye conditions such as retinal arterial occlusion and retinal venous occlusion. Regular eye examinations can reveal subtle microscopic changes in the the eyes that can serve as warning signs of early organ damage from hypertension. Similarly to diabetes, ophthalmologists play a very important role in eye-care as well as general care of individuals with hypertension. The eye exam is the only part of the physical exam that allows direct examination of the microscopic blood vessels that can get damaged by hypertension. Severe hypertension, in particular, needs close follow-up by an ophthalmologist in order to prevent severe visual loss.