When we think about heart health, we often think of aerobic exercise, nutritious meals, and stress management. But did you know that keeping your heart healthy can also protect your eyes? February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to explore this crucial connection.

The cardiovascular system plays a crucial role in maintaining your body’s overall health, including the health of your eyes. Poor heart health can result in serious eye conditions and even vision loss. Let’s explore why a healthy heart leads to healthy eyes and how you can take steps to support both.

The Heart and Eye Connection 

Your eyes are filled with small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to your retinas—the section of your eyes responsible for capturing visual information. The health of these blood vessels is directly linked to your cardiovascular system.

When your heart struggles to pump blood effectively, the blood vessels in your eyes can sustain damage. High blood pressure, for instance, can lead to hypertensive retinopathy, where the retinal blood vessels narrow or leak, potentially resulting in vision problems. High cholesterol can also cause blockages that diminish blood flow to your eyes, increasing the risk of vision impairment.

Here are some common eye conditions linked to heart health:

• Hypertensive Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood pressure.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Blood vessel damage caused by diabetes, often linked to heart disease.
• Macular Degeneration: A condition affecting the retina that can lead to central vision loss, often associated with poor cardiovascular health.

Maintaining good heart health can help reduce your risk of developing these eye issues.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Heart and Sharp Vision 

The good news? What’s good for your heart is also great for your eyes. Below are some practical tips to keep both your heart and vision in top shape:

1. Eat a Balanced, Heart-Healthy Diet: Fill your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Nutrient-rich foods like spinach, carrots, and salmon not only support heart health but are also packed with eye-loving nutrients such as lutein and omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and yoga can boost blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, and support the health of the blood vessels in your eyes.
3. Manage Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Work with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Keeping these under control can protect the delicate blood vessels in your eyes.
4. Don’t Forget Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams can catch signs of cardiovascular disease early. An eye doctor can detect changes in your blood vessels that might indicate high blood pressure or other heart-related issues.
5. Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your eyes. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart and vision.

Spot the Signs: When to See Your Doctor

Keeping an eye out for symptoms can help you catch potential problems early. If you experience any of the following, consult your healthcare provider immediately:

• Sudden or significant changes in vision
• Persistent eye floaters or flashes
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain or pressure

These symptoms could indicate an underlying cardiovascular condition impacting your eyes.

Heart and Eye Health: A Shared Responsibility 

Caring for your heart means caring for your eyes. By making heart-healthy lifestyle choices, you’re not only reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease but also protecting your vision for years to come. This American Heart Month, take proactive steps to support your overall well-being.

Remember—your eye doctor can be a key partner in your health journey. Schedule regular eye exams and share your health history with your eye care provider to ensure comprehensive care.

Information received through CEC vision care channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

CEC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of VSP Vision.

Sources:  American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), The Vision Council (TVC), National Eye Institute (NEI), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and the American Heart Association.