High blood pressure's silent threat: Blurry vision could signal hypertension risk

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases globally. It affects roughly 40% of the adult population and is often referred to as a "silent killer" due to its subtle or non-existent symptoms. These symptoms can include blurry vision, nosebleeds, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and headaches.

Also noteworthy is the disastrous effects it can have on vision, as confirmed by studies.

The blood pressure of an adult ideally should be:

- Up until 65 years of age → 120-129/70-79 mmHg;

- From 65 to 80 years old → 130-139/70-79 mmHg;

- Above 80 years of age → 130-149/70-79 mm Hg.

The impact of hypertension on the eyes may be discernible during an ophthalmic examination, but it isn't something a non-specialist would identify with the naked eye. This effect is associated with a disorder known as hypertensive retinopathy.

Hypertensive retinopathy affects those with uncontrolled or chronic hypertension. High blood pressure can harm the blood vessels in the retina, leading to their narrowing, formation of aneurysms, hemorrhages, or swelling. In severe cases, this can result in vision loss.

1. Ischemic Heart Disease. Hypertension puts a strain on the heart, thereby increasing oxygen demand. If the heart fails to meet this demand, it could lead to myocardial ischemia, which manifests as chest pain. In extreme situations, ischemia can result in a heart attack.

Also, your eyes can hint at the disease even seven years before the appearance of the first symptoms.

2. Heart Failure. Chronic hypertension can cause damage to the heart muscle, eventually leading to heart failure — a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's requirements.

3. Stroke. Hypertension is one of the prime risk factors for a stroke as it can cause damage to blood vessels in the brain.

4. Damage to Blood Vessels. Hypertension can cause harm to the walls of blood vessels, subsequently increasing the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fat and cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels. These deposits can hinder blood flow and heighten the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications.

5. Aneurysms. As hypertension weakens the walls of blood vessels, it can lead to the formation of aneurysms or localized enlargement of vessels.

6. Kidney Diseases. The kidneys are very sensitive to blood pressure, so hypertension can potentially cause damage to them.

To avoid hypertension, doctors recommend daily physical activity, a balanced diet low in salt, abstaining from alcohol and tobacco, and adhering to prescribed medication.