High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause damage to your blood vessels over time, including the arteries and veins supplying the retina in the back of the eye. The retina is an important layer of tissue in the back of the eye that receives visual information from the world, and helps transmit it to the brain.

Mild damage to the retinal blood vessels causes changes that can be detected by your eye doctor. More advanced or severe high blood pressure can even cause these blood vessels to bleed or leak. This is more common if you have had high blood pressure for many years. There may not be any noticeable symptoms of hypertensive eye problems, but some people may notice blurred vision, floating spots, headaches or double vision.If you have high blood pressure and experience these symptoms, you should see your eye doctor promptly.

Treatment is generally focused on reducing blood pressure with medications and lifestyle changes. Sometimes, laser treatment, medications, or other treatments may be needed.