Most people know that high blood pressure (also called hypertension) can lead to heart problems —but did you know it can also affect your eyes?

Your eyes contain a network of tiny, delicate blood vessels that are especially vulnerable to changes in blood pressure. When blood pressure is consistently high, it can damage these vessels, leading to a condition known as hypertensive retinopathy.

In its early stages, hypertensive retinopathy may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as the damage progresses, it can lead to blurred vision, reduced visual clarity, or even vision loss in severe cases. Over time, uncontrolled high blood pressure may also increase the risk of more serious eye diseases such as optic nerve damage (glaucoma), fluid buildup under the retina (choroidopathy), or blockage of blood flow to the retina (retinal vein occlusion).

The good news is that early detection and management of high blood pressure can help protect your vision. During a comprehensive eye exam, we can often spot signs of vascular damage— even before you notice changes in your sight. This makes regular eye exams an important part of your overall health monitoring.

If you have high blood pressure, let us know. We’ll keep a close eye on any changes and work with your healthcare team to ensure your eyes stay as healthy as possible.

Your eyes are a window to your overall health—don’t overlook them!

Schedule your annual eye exam today to protect your vision and stay ahead of potential problems.