Hypertensive retinopathy is an eye condition in which high blood pressure damages the layer of tissue at the back of the eye (retina).

It commonly affects people aged 40 and older, as its primary cause (high blood pressure) is widespread. According to estimates, hypertensive retinopathy affects 4% to 18.7% of adults who do not have diabetes1.

Most individuals with hypertensive retinopathy do not experience symptoms until the late stages of the disease. Symptoms may include double vision, blurred vision, or vision loss.

Without treatment, hypertensive retinopathy can lead to several complications:

• Reduced Vision: Untreated hypertensive retinopathy can potentially lead to blindness.
• Macular Edema: Swelling in the retina (macular edema) may occur.
• Impaired Blood Flow: The retina and optic nerve may suffer from reduced blood flow.
• Retinal Detachment: The retina can detach from the supporting tissues.

High blood pressure also increases the risk of other eye problems, including:

• Retinal Artery Occlusion: Blockage of the artery supplying blood to the retina.
• Retinal Vein Occlusion: Blockage of the vein draining blood from the retina.
• Aggravation of Diabetic Retinopathy.

Maintaining healthy blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication can help prevent these conditions.

Regular visits to an ophthalmologist for eye examinations are essential, especially for individuals over 40 years old. Your doctor can advise you on the appropriate frequency of eye check-ups based on your overall health and other factors.

For further information, you can contact the Filatov Institute:

Reception: +38 (048) 707-23-53
Information: +38 (048) 794-17-98