Can your eye doctor predict a stroke?
A university study shows certain
types of retina problems are early signs of stroke.
 Research
scientists from the
University of Sydney in
Australia screened the eyes of 3,654 healthy adults
for signs of high blood pressure. After seven
years of screening, they discovered that patients
with signs of hypertension in their eyes were three
times more likely to suffer a stroke than those
without hypertensive eye changes.
With the study results, the researchers confirmed
that the ophthalmologist can screen hypertensive
retinopathy patients and inform them of elevated
risk of stroke.
Hypertensive retinopathy is a condition of the
retina, the light-sensitive tissue on the back
of the eye, where the blood vessels become fragile
and rupture. The condition, if not monitored
and treated, can lead to vision loss.
Dr. Deupree has always
routinely checked and monitored his patients for any
form of retinopathy changes. When appropriate,
he works with the patient's primary physician to
manage ocular and systemic diseases.
ref: Prevention Magazine |
