Vision loss is often attributed to older age, but the reality is that vision changes can occur at any stage. These early onset changes are especially common in people with underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. If you have been diagnosed with either of these conditions, learn more about how they can increase your risk of vision loss.
High Blood Pressure
Vision loss attributed to high blood pressure is often directly linked to excessive strain or pressure on the blood vessels that support the eyes. When pressure is high within the blood vessels, often, less blood can flow through the vessel to reach the intended destination. In terms of the eyes, decreased flow can mean that the retina is not able to perform efficiently, which will mean reduced vision.
Constricted blood flow can also lead to permanent nerve damage, as blood supply is critical to nerve health. Nerve damage in the eye, especially the optic nerve, can also lead to vision loss. It is critical to properly maintain this condition.
Diabetes
Any person diagnosed with diabetes must take the necessary steps to control their blood sugar level. When high levels of glucose consistently remain in the blood for too long, all sorts of toxic effects result, including the onset of diabetic retinopathy.
With diabetic retinopathy, the toxicity of the glucose causes damage to the blood vessels that support the retina. As the vessels become more damaged, the contents of the vessels can leak into the retina. At this point, it can cause a decline in your ability to see, which can be irreversible.
Autoimmune Disease
The simplest way to describe autoimmune diseases would be to say that they are a type of disease characterized by the body attacking itself. One of the more unpredictable things about these conditions is that no area of the body is safe from attack. For example, for people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation of the middle part of the eye, known as uveitis, is common.
If the swelling in the area is not properly treated, it can cause long-term damage to the area that can eventually lead to vision loss. Autoimmune diseases may not be curable, but it is vital to properly manage the condition to protect your vision.
If you have questions about eye health or vision concerns, make sure you speak with a healthcare professional who can review your overall eye health to help you navigate this complex and concerning matter. For more information on vision loss, contact a professional near you.
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