Insights into Heart Health From Eye Exams
What the optician can tell you about your heart
Routine eye exams can provide critical clues about cardiovascular health. Ophthalmologists are often the first to detect signs of heart disease during a dilated retinal exam.
How retinal vessels reflect heart vessels
The retina receives blood supply from small arteries and veins similar to those supplying the heart and brain. Changes in retinal vessels may indicate what is happening in other areas. Fatty plaque deposits breaking off from the carotid artery can lodge in retinal arteries, signaling high stroke risk.
Retinal findings suggesting vascular issues
Artery occlusions
Blockages of retinal arteries, called occlusions, reduce blood flow to the retina. An embolism or blood clot can cause sudden vision loss or an “eye stroke.” Studies show artery occlusions precede strokes and heart attacks.
Vein occlusions
Blocked retinal veins related to blood clots or high pressure may mean high cholesterol or hypertension. Research links retinal vein occlusions to increased cardiovascular events.
Other markers
- Fatty eyelid bumps (xanthelasma) — high cholesterol risk
- Corneal arcus in those under 40 — elevated CVD mortality risk
- Leaking vessels or hemorrhages — possible hypertension
Detecting hypertension
Signs of chronically high blood pressure seen during eye exams:
- Narrowed retinal arteries compared to veins
- Damaged blood vessels
- Optic nerve changes
This can lead to retinopathy and eventual vision loss if untreated. Patients are referred to primary care for blood pressure management.
Emerging technology
Algorithms analyzing retinal images may soon quantify heart disease risk. By counting damaged cells, scans can identify those likely to have a cardiac event within 5 years.
The vital role of eye exams
Dilated retinal evaluations are crucial for early detection of asymptomatic cardiovascular disease. They provide a unique window into the health of blood vessels supplying the heart and brain. Routine eye exams can save lives through early risk identification and preventative care.
References:
What Your Eyes Can Tell Doctors About Your Heart Health (allaboutvision.com)
