Eye Symptoms of High Blood Pressure
Many people believe that hypertension is a complex issue which is best associated with some vague brand of chemical imbalance or mental struggle. What many do not know is that hypertension is actually a disease which effects how the human body operates. Furthermore, the causes of hypertension extend beyond everyday stressors, and may actually be the cause of some of our daily inefficiencies.
Some may also be surprised to learn that essential signs of prehypertension can be observed, literally, with one’s own eyes. In fact, symptoms of the introductory stages can be detected not only by headaches and general vision problems, but other indications such as spots on the retina (called ‘cotton wool spots’), and swelling or consistent redness of the optic nerves.
For those interested in having a professional confirm the signs, classic hypertensive retinopathy has become a generally routine diagnosis. According to Thanh Tan Nguyen, MBBS1 of the University of Melbourne, “clinical indicators of hypertension include generalized and focal arteriolar narrowing, arterio-venous nicking, increased retinal arteriolar light reflex (copper or silver wiring), flame- and blot-shaped retinal hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, and, in severe cases, optic disc swelling”. The association of these retinal signs with blood pressure is consistent and seen in both adults and children”. In other words, you could have numerous symptoms – any of which could be either the cause or effect of a complication in your body.
The problem with hypertension, like so many other medical conditions is that it could be indicative of a worse problem elsewhere. Another issue is that the disease doesn’t resonate merely at the site of an effected optic nerve. Rather, if untreated, hypertension can lead to permanent eye damage, as well as diabetes and/or high blood pressure. Worse still, the risk of stroke and heart attack improves dramatically in secondary hypertension. According to the American Heart Association, studies indicate that the risk of heart attack triples for those who have prehypertension, which is only the beginning stage of the disease.
For those of us who are looking to ensure the health of our children and other loved ones, there are alternatives to enduring the panic and worry which is commonly associated with hypertension. Thanks to advances in medical technology, there is a solution for those who wish to combat such a risk. Scientists have found that there is a way to treat debilitations in the body either caused by or indicated by hypertension; by helping bodily functions to improve rather than allowing immune systems to attack themselves. Essentially, you can revive your own functions and improve your own health even when doctors are unsure of what is interfering with your life and putting your future at risk.