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5900 Heckert Rd.
P.O. Box 324
Bakerstown, PA 15007
724-443-6767 Phone
724-443-6730 Fax

4001 Freeport Rd.
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
724-226-0444 Phone
724-226-0744 Fax

 

Heart Health & Your Eyes: The Link Between Cardiovascular Health and Vision Problems

February is designated as American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Did you know that your heart and eyes are more connected than you might think? While we often associate heart disease with high blood pressure or cholesterol, its effects can also extend to your vision. The eyes are full of tiny, delicate blood vessels that are highly sensitive to changes in blood flow. When your cardiovascular system is not functioning properly, your eyes may show some of the earliest warning signs.

How Heart Health Affects Your Vision

Since your eyes rely on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood, any issues affecting your circulation can impact your vision. Here are some common cardiovascular-related eye problems:

Hypertensive Retinopathy (High Blood Pressure & Eye Damage)

High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause damage to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. Over time, this can lead to:

  • Narrowed or leaking blood vessels
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Vision loss in severe cases

If left untreated, hypertensive retinopathy can increase the risk of serious eye conditions, including retinal detachment or optic nerve damage.

Diabetic Retinopathy (Diabetes & Vision Loss)

Diabetes and heart disease often go hand in hand. High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms include:

  • Dark spots or floaters in vision
  • Blurry or fluctuating vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness, making regular eye exams essential for early detection and treatment.

Retinal Artery & Vein Occlusion (Eye Strokes)

Just like the arteries in your heart, the arteries and veins in your eyes can become blocked due to poor circulation or blood clots. This is known as a retinal artery or vein occlusion, sometimes referred to as an “eye stroke.” It can cause:

  • Sudden vision loss or blurriness
  • Dark spots or a shadow in one eye
  • Pain or pressure in the eye

Since these blockages are often linked to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or heart disease, they may be a warning sign of future cardiovascular problems.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) & Heart Disease

AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults and has been linked to cardiovascular disease. Poor circulation and inflammation can contribute to the breakdown of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Risk factors include:

  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking and poor diet

Keeping your heart healthy can also help slow the progression of AMD.

Protecting Your Heart & Eyes

The good news is that many of the lifestyle habits that promote heart health also benefit your eyes. Here are some ways to keep both in top shape:

  • Control Blood Pressure & Cholesterol – Follow your doctor’s advice on managing hypertension and high cholesterol.
  • Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – Foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and leafy greens support both heart and eye health.
  • Exercise Regularly – Physical activity improves circulation, reducing the risk of eye and heart conditions.
  • Quit Smoking – Smoking damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of vision loss and heart disease.
  • Schedule Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams that include dilation. The doctors at Bissell Eye Care can detect early signs of heart-related eye issues before they cause permanent damage.

Your eyes can reveal a lot about your overall health, including your risk of heart disease. If you’re experiencing any vision changes, especially sudden blurriness, vision loss, or dark spots call our office at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444 to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. By taking care of your heart, you’re also protecting your eyesight for years to come.


About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.