Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against your vessels. It is measured by two numbers, including the systolic and the diastolic. The systolic or top number is the pressure as the heart beats. The diastolic or bottom number is the force when the heart rests. 

​According to the American Stroke Association, when the systolic number is 130 or higher and/or the diastolic number is 80 or higher consistently, it is considered high blood pressure or hypertension.  

Several factors play a role in the risk of developing eye diseases. Some are controllable, such as smoking and UV exposure, but other factors are out of our control, such as age. Ancestry can also affect your chances of developing some eye conditions. 

​April is National Minority Health Month. It is a good opportunity to focus on reducing the risk of eye diseases that disproportionally affect minorities. 

April is Women’s Eye and Health Safety Month, and although vision loss can affect both men and women, women have a higher risk. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 61 percent of people that have cataracts and glaucoma are women. Additionally, up to 65 percent of patients with age-related macular degeneration also are women. Those conditions can lead to blindness. 

​People that have diabetes are at an increased risk of certain eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Keeping blood sugar levels steady is a great way to reduce your risk of eye complications.
​
Managing your diabetes is a lifelong job. But there may be times when it is a bit more challenging, such as during the holidays. Many of us are busy shopping, attending parties, and prepping holiday meals. It is not only a busy time of year, but it can be stressful and filled with food and treats that can alter your blood sugar levels. 

​Eye exams are a vital way to maintain good vision and overall health. A vision test is not the same thing as a comprehensive eye exam. A comprehensive eye exam is needed to monitor the overall health of your eyes and detect any problems. Certain eye diseases, such as glaucoma, do not usually cause symptoms early. But the disease can be diagnosed through certain tests. 
​