Heart Health Month 2026 - How the Heart and the Eyes Are Linked

This February, as we observe Heart Health Month, it’s the perfect time to consider how your cardiovascular health affects not just your heart, but your eyes too. Many people don’t realise that the eyes can reveal early signs of heart problems, making regular eye exams an essential part of overall health care.

How the Heart and the Eyes Are Connected

Your heart and eyes are both part of the circulatory system, relying on tiny blood vessels to function effectively. Problems with the heart can often show up in the eyes, and optometrists can sometimes spot early warning signs during a routine eye exam, before symptoms appear.

Here are some ways your heart and eyes are linked:

1. Blood Flow and Circulation

The heart delivers oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, including to the eyes. Good circulation is vital for eye health, as the retina depends on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, it can negatively impact your vision.

High blood pressure, in particular, can damage the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, leading to hypertensive retinopathy, which may cause blurred vision and, if untreated, permanent vision loss.

2. Cholesterol and Your Eyes

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and can also directly affect eye health. Cholesterol build-up in the arteries can restrict blood flow to the eyes, potentially causing conditions such as retinal artery occlusion, where blocked vessels lead to sudden vision loss.

High cholesterol can also result in arcus senilis, a grey or white ring around the cornea. While usually harmless, it can signal elevated cholesterol and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

3. Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Eye Health

Diabetes affects both heart and eye health. Persistently high blood sugar damages blood vessels throughout the body, increasing the risk of heart disease and affecting the small vessels in the eyes. This can lead to diabetic retinopathy, where retinal vessels leak or bleed, causing vision problems.

Since diabetes and heart disease are closely connected, managing blood sugar levels is key to protecting both your cardiovascular and eye health. Effective management reduces the risk of serious heart complications and vision loss.

Steps to Protect Your Heart and Eyes

The good news is that many habits that protect your heart also support your vision:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fats
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
• Attend regular eye exams

Eye Exams: More Than Just Vision Checks

At Derbyshire Opticians, our comprehensive eye exams go beyond testing how well you see. They allow us to spot early signs of systemic health issues, including heart disease. Changes in the retina can indicate high blood pressure, circulation problems, or even a risk of stroke.

Protect Your Heart, Protect Your Vision

This Heart Health Month, take a proactive step toward your wellbeing. Book a comprehensive eye exam with Derbyshire Opticians today, and safeguard both your heart and your vision.

Book online here or call your local practice:

Dronfield - 01246 292088

Matlock - 01629 584280

Bakewell - 01629 813532