What is Hypertensive Retinopathy?

Hypertensive Retinopathy is a series of changes in the retina caused by high blood pressure.  These include optic nerve swelling (edema), exudates in the macula (center of the retina), macular edema (swelling), and retinal macroaneurysms. Most of the changes from high blood pressure improve with control of the systemic blood pressure, but some complications can develop requiring laser, injections or surgery (vitrectomy).