Blood pressure is one of the most important health indicators, and untreated high blood pressure can lead to many different medical conditions throughout the body, including deadly strokes and heart attacks.
The link between the eyes and high blood pressure
Most people don’t think about their eyes when it comes to their blood pressure, but there are actually several indicators of hypertension (another term for high blood pressure) that medical professionals can detect during an eye exam. The eyes are full of blood vessels, and they typically stiffen and join into each other in instances of high blood pressure. Severe cases can lead to blood leakage and busted blood vessels, which can have numerous dangerous effects on the vision.
Detecting high blood pressure early is vital
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure level is one of the best things you can do to safeguard your long-term health, for your eyes and many other vital organs throughout your body. In addition to vision problems such as loss of sight due to blood vessel damage or fluid buildup, chronic high blood pressure can have serious impacts on your heart health. If left untreated, it often leads to serious complications such as strokes or heart attacks.
Staying on top of your eye health and your heart health
Thankfully, most cases of high blood pressure can be treated by a variety of methods that vary from changes in diet and exercise to medication, depending upon the patient. Early detection is crucial to ensure that the condition can be managed before you are at increased risk for the most serious complications. Undergoing regular eye exams with your eye doctor is not only important for your long-term eye health, but it’s also one of the best things you can do for your heart as well. Contact Florida Eye Specialists today to schedule an appointment at one of our seven locations serving the Jacksonville area. Our ophthalmologists will examine your eyes for signs of hypertension and help you discover if you need to seek treatment for high blood pressure.
