Your eyes aren’t just windows to the soul—they can also offer a glimpse into your heart health. That’s because your eyes and heart are connected through the body’s circulatory system. The tiny blood vessels in your retina are especially sensitive to changes in blood flow and pressure.
Conditions like high blood pressure can cause these vessels to narrow or leak, while cholesterol buildup may appear as blockages in the eye’s blood supply. These subtle changes often show up during a routine eye exam—sometimes long before symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath occur.
Optometrists use advanced tools like retinal imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to examine these vessels in detail. By keeping up with annual eye exams, you’re not just protecting your vision—you’re also giving your doctor a chance to spot potential cardiovascular risks early, when they’re easier to manage.
Learn more about why regular eye exams matter for your overall health and schedule your comprehensive eye exam today!