Elevated Blood pressure over 150/90 mm Hg in the Indian population is usually considered hypertension. There are various causes for this raised BP which includes Kidney disorders, Heart diseases, Preeclampsia, etc. however the most common reason is idiopathic. This raised blood pressure may cause various complications in the body.
Hypertension related to eye diseases can cause significant morbidity and can lead to significant damage in eyesight. Increased Blood pressure can affect the Retina, Choroid, and Retinal blood vessels over a period of years. Retinal blood vessels start getting thinner and attenuated due to increased BP. Eventually, these blood vessels leak blood which can lead to hemorrhages in the retina. Other fluids can also leak and get deposited in the Retina. This can permanently damage retinal tissue and lead to visual impairment. Severely increased blood pressure can lead to swelling in the optic nerve head also called papilloedema. This is a severe condition that requires immediate hospitalization and control of blood pressure by a physician. Dr. Akshaya Goyal Retina Specialist In Ambikapur For Eye Problem.
Fluctuations in Blood pressure can also affect the blood supply of the optic nerve; The nerve that carries electrical impulses to the brain. The loss of blood supply to the optic nerve and its head can cause sudden damage to the nerve and can hence obscure visual pathways leading to a decrease in eyesight. This disease is known as Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy. This is often seen in patients with fluctuating bp and often encountered early in the morning when a person may wake up abruptly from their sleep and get up from the bed leading to postural hypotension.
Elevated BP can lead to pressure over the veins in the retina. This pressure on the walls of the veins and cause blockage of the veins and cause multiple hemorrhages and stoppage of blood flow in the eye. These venous occlusions can cause a sudden decrease in vision and should be treated as an emergency. Treatment of venous blocks includes Intravitreal injections of Anti VEGF drugs followed by Retinal Photocoagulation.
Preeclampsia is increased BP during pregnancy which is usually managed by the obstetrician. Preeclampsia can also lead to eye problems in pregnant women. Elevated Blood pressure can cause an undue effect on the outer layers of the eye and can lead to Hypertensive choroidopathy. Papilloedema in the optic nerve can occur which is an emergency and requires immediate Caesarean section for the well-being of the mother and baby. Dr. Akshaya Goyal Retina Specialist In Ambikapur For Eye Problem.
Hypertensive patients must follow compliance with their medication and take it regularly on time as per the doctor’s advice. Special attention must be emphasized to diet and food habits. Yoga and exercise are very important for the healthy lifestyle and well being of every individual with hypertension. It is a lifestyle associated disorder and can be easily controlled with few lifestyle changes.
