February is American Heart Month! While you may instantly think about exercising more and eating better when it comes to improving your heart health, did you know that obtaining an eye exam can also help?

A Heart-healthy Eye Exam

Although it’s important to watch your blood pressure and cholesterol levels when it comes to having a healthy heart, it’s equally important not to skip out on comprehensive eye exams. Not only can these eye checks help keep your vision on point, but they can also help detect cardiovascular disease.

For instance, did you know that high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in your retina? Known as hypertensive retinopathy, this condition occurs when the blood vessels narrow, and it can lead to vision loss.

Because factors that can damage the eyes (such as obesity, high cholesterol and smoking) can also hurt your heart, damaged vision could be a clue that other health issues, including heart disease, could be a concern. An eye exam could spot signs of health conditions that could lead to further testing, which could lead to earlier diagnosis. And—as with most health problems—the earlier the diagnosis, the better the outcome.