Pune: Uncontrolled hypertension not only raises the chances of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney damage but can also adversely affect vision. Therefore, people diagnosed with blood pressure should go for regular eye check ups according to experts.
According to Dr. Sucheta Kulkarni, Medical Director at H.V. Desai Eye Hospital, hypertension is associated with Retinal Vascular Occlusion (RVO) , a condition where the blood flow to retina through veins is blocked. This can result in blurry vision or loss of vision if left untreated.
What adds to the condition is that many people stop their medications for blood pressure without consulting a doctor. The fact that more and more youngsters are getting diagnosed with high blood pressure is a cause of major concern.
Dr. Kulkarni said that therefore, people with high blood pressure should go for eye checkups at least once in a year where the doctor will check any abnormalities in the retina.
For those who have hypertension as well as diabetes are also at a risk of Diabetic Retinopathy.
Dr. Kulkarni added that regular eye exams not only help prevent complications related to vision but can also serve as an early indicator of high blood pressure, as the eyes are sensitive to changes in blood pressure.
