Can an eye exam detect high blood pressure?

Yes, an eye exam can detect signs of high blood pressure by revealing retinopathy, which is damage to the eye's main blood supply.

How does diabetes affect the eyes?

High blood sugar from diabetes can damage small blood vessels in the eye, potentially leading to diabetic retinopathy and blindness.

Can arthritis symptoms appear in the eyes?

Yes, systemic inflammatory diseases that cause arthritis can also cause eye inflammation, leading to pain, redness, and vision loss.

Home / Health / Your Eyes: A Window to Hidden Health Issues

Your Eyes: A Window to Hidden Health Issues

9 Feb

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Summary

Eye exams can detect serious conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Retinal blood vessel health reflects overall cardiovascular well-being.
Inflammatory diseases causing arthritis may also show eye symptoms.

Your Eyes: A Window to Hidden Health Issues

Routine eye examinations offer a surprising glimpse into a patient's overall health, capable of detecting serious underlying conditions. According to a retinal specialist, the intricate network of blood vessels in the retina is directly linked to the health of the heart and the body's vascular system. This connection means that changes observed in the eye's vasculature can be early indicators of cardiovascular problems.

High blood pressure, often asymptomatic, can lead to retinopathy, a condition that damages the eye's blood supply and may result in vision loss. Experts note that even without a blood pressure cuff, an eye specialist can identify signs of hypertension and diabetes by examining retinal blood vessels. Patients have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and cholesterol during routine eye checkups after subtle clots or vessel changes were noted.