Blindness
Blindness in pets -- either sudden or gradual -- is frequently a consequence of uncontrolled hypertension. The retina is particularly vulnerable to damage from high blood pressure because it relies on tiny, delicate blood vessels.
Key Facts
- Often the first noticeable sign of latent hypertension
- Retinal changes include tortuous blood vessels, hemorrhage, and partial or complete retinal detachment
- Early identification may allow some vision to be restored
- Untreated hyperthyroidism can cause blindness via secondary hypertension
- Minor vision changes should always be reported to a veterinarian
- Species: dogs and cats
Connections (21)
Related Conditions
— consequence of complete cataracts
CKD-related hypertension can damage the retina.
— risk if deep ulcer progresses
— rare complication from ocular migration
— consequence of untreated KCS
Severe or untreated eye injuries can result in irreversible vision loss.
Delayed treatment or severe optic nerve damage frequently results in permanent vision loss.
— consequence of uncontrolled glaucoma
Often co-occurs when blindness and cardiac damage share a hypertension origin.
Vision loss from increased intracranial pressure
The primary cause of acquired blindness in pets; retinal vessels rupture or detach under excessive pressure.
Untreated thyroid disease leads to hypertension, which can cause sudden blindness.
— associated secondary problems possible
Can result from lead-induced neurological damage
— inevitable outcome
— potential outcome