Retinopathy Hypertensive

Hypertensive retinopathy: causes, symptoms and treatment

Hypertensive retinopathy, also known as arteriospastic retinitis or angiospastic retinopathy, is a complication associated with high blood pressure or hypertension. This condition affects the retinal vascular system in the eye and can lead to serious vision problems if not detected and treated promptly.

The causes of hypertensive retinopathy are related to high blood pressure, which affects the walls of the blood vessels in the retina. Gradually increasing pressure can cause thickening and narrowing of the arteries, as well as changes in the structure and function of the vascular walls. This can lead to a deterioration in the blood supply to the retina and the development of various pathological changes.

The main symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy may be:

1. Vision changes: Patients may experience blurred vision, difficulty seeing small details or spots in front of the eyes.
2. Appearance of hemorrhages: Increased pressure in the vessels of the retina can lead to rupture of small capillaries and hemorrhage, which may be visible as red spots or dots on the retina.
3. Retinal swelling: Hypertension can cause fluid retention in the retinal tissue, leading to swelling. This can lead to decreased visual function and image distortion.

Diagnosis of hypertensive retinopathy usually involves an eye examination, including ophthalmoscopy to examine the condition of the retinal vasculature. Additional techniques such as angiography (examination of blood vessels using a contrast agent) or optical coherence tomography (OCT) may be used to evaluate the retina in more detail.

Treatment of hypertensive retinopathy is aimed at controlling blood pressure and preventing further damage to the retinal vasculature. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations to control your blood pressure, take recommended medications, and lead a healthy lifestyle.

In some cases, when hypertensive retinopathy reaches an advanced stage and leads to severe vision loss or bleeding, surgery may be required. An example of such a procedure would be laser coagulation, which helps seal damaged vessels and prevent further hemorrhages.

Prevention of hypertensive retinopathy involves regularly measuring blood pressure and maintaining it at an optimal level. Controlling your blood pressure, eating right, being physically active and avoiding bad habits such as smoking play an important role in preventing the development of retinopathy and other complications associated with hypertension.

In conclusion, hypertensive retinopathy is a serious complication associated with high blood pressure. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, timely consultation with a doctor, and adherence to treatment and blood pressure management recommendations can help prevent the development of this condition and preserve visual function.

Hypertensive retinopathy is a disease of the blood vessels of the eyes that can lead to serious complications and even loss of vision. It is caused by high blood pressure, which leads to the destruction of small vessels in the retina, as well as an increase in cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood.