Hypertensive retinopathy Flashcards
What is classed as a normal blood pressure?
Under 120/80
What is classed as high blood pressure?
Over 140/90
What are the risk factors for hypertension?
Increased salt intake
Smoking
Increased alcohol intake
FH
Race
Increased age
Stress
How can hypertension be prevented?
Reduce salt intake
Reduce alcohol intake
Balanced diet
Regular exercise
Weight loss
What are the different types of anti-hypertensive drugs?
Beta blockers
Diuretics
ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin receptor blockers
Alpha-2 agonists
How do beta blockers reduce HBP?
Slow heart rate
How do diuretics reduce HBP?
Increases salt/fluid in urine which results in reduced bodily fluid and so reduced BP
How do ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin receptor blockers reduce HBP?
Reduce angiotensin (narrowing of vessels)
How do Alpha-2 agonists reduce HBP?
Ease blood flow via alpha receptors in the brain
What are the features of hypertensive retinopathy?
Vasoconstriction (generalised or focal)
Arteriosclerosis (tortuosity, thickening, copper wiring, nipping)
Leakage (CWS, haem, hard exudates)
If hypertensive retinopathy is malignant there may also be…
ONH swelling
Macular star
Increased tortuosity
What are the grades of hypertensive retinopathy?
Mild
Moderate
Severe
What signs are associated with mild hypertensive retinopathy?
Arterial narrowing
Nicking
Arterial wall hardening
What is the management of mild hypertensive retinopathy?
Routine
Better control of HBP
What signs are associated with moderate hypertensive retinopathy?
Mild grade plus:
Haem (dot and flame)
CWS
Hard exudates
Microaneurysms
