Hypertensive retinopathy

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Hypertensive retinopathy

Retina

Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension) is the only treatment for hypertensive retinopathy.

See also: Malignant hypertension for treatment of this disorder

Patients with grade 4 (severe hypertensive retinopathy) often have heart and kidney complications of high blood pressure. They are also at higher risk for stroke.

The retina will generally recover if the blood pressure is controlled. However, some patients with grade 4 hypertensive retinopathy will have permanent damage to the optic nerve or macula.

• Complications associated with high blood pressure
• Irreversible damage to the optic nerve or macula, resulting in vision problems

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have high blood pressure and vision changes or headaches occur.

Review Date: 08/31/2010
Reviewed By: Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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