In the early stages, hypertensive retinopathy might not present noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, symptoms may include blurred vision or defects in the field of vision. Fundoscopic examination may reveal:

⦁ Arteriolar constriction, with a reduced ratio of the width of retinal arterioles to venules.
⦁ Chronic hypertension can lead to permanent arterial narrowing and arteriovenous crossing abnormalities, such as arteriovenous nicking.
⦁ Arteriosclerosis may cause changes in the vascular walls, ranging from mild (copper wiring) to severe (silver wiring).
⦁ In advanced stages, complications such as retinal occlusions may occur, including branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) or central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

Hypertensive retinopathy is often linked to chronic high blood pressure, which can lead to damage and blockage of the small blood vessels in the retina. This impairs the retina’s blood supply, causing it to attempt to grow new but fragile blood vessels that are prone to leakage.

The risk of developing hypertensive retinopathy increases with:

⦁ Duration of high blood pressure
⦁ Poorly controlled blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes
⦁ High blood pressure
⦁ High cholesterol
⦁ Pregnancy
⦁ Tobacco use

Hypertensive retinopathy can lead to several complications, including:

⦁ Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): Blockage of the main retinal vein, leading to vision problems.
⦁ Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO): Blockage of a branch of the retinal vein.
⦁ Cystoid Macular Edema (CME): Fluid accumulation in the macula, often resulting from long-term CRVO or BRVO.

Managing hypertensive retinopathy primarily involves controlling high blood pressure. Additionally, any vision-threatening conditions should be treated aggressively. For vision loss or significant retinal edema, treatments may include:

⦁ Laser therapy
⦁ Intravitreal injections of corticosteroids or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents, such as ranibizumab, pegaptanib, or bevacizumab.
Regular monitoring and prompt treatment are essential to manage hypertensive retinopathy and prevent further vision loss. At Ashu Laser Vision and Ashu Eye Hospital we treat the best advanced treatment for hypertensive retinopathy & eye clinic and hospital in Andheri Mumbai