Can High Blood Pressure Cause Blurred Vision?
December 4, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, high blood pressure (hypertension) can sometimes cause blurred vision, although it is not a common symptom in every case of high blood pressure. When blood pressure is significantly elevated, it can affect various parts of the body, including the blood vessels in the eyes.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This condition, known as hypertensive retinopathy, can lead to changes in the blood vessels that supply the retina, causing them to leak fluid or blood. These changes might result in vision problems, including blurred vision or even vision loss, depending on the severity of the damage.
Other symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy might include:
- Reduced visual acuity
- Double vision
- Flashes of light
- Swelling of the optic nerve
It’s important to note that blurred vision can be caused by various factors unrelated to high blood pressure, such as eye strain, refractive errors, eye infections, or other eye conditions. However, if you have high blood pressure and experience sudden or significant changes in your vision, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention to rule out any serious complications, including hypertensive retinopathy or other eye-related issues associated with high blood pressure.
Managing high blood pressure through lifestyle changes, medications prescribed by a healthcare professional, and regular monitoring can help reduce the risk of complications, including those affecting the eyes. Regular eye exams are also recommended for individuals with high blood pressure to monitor any potential eye-related complications.