Taking care of your eyes is essential, especially for people with diabetes who are at a higher risk of developing eye diseases. A diabetic eye exam is part of a comprehensive eye exam performed by a qualified optometrist. These exams detect early signs of diabetic eye disease and ensure timely treatment before significant damage occurs.  

• If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it is crucial to see an eye doctor for regular diabetic eye exams to detect the earliest stages of diabetic eye disease. Individuals with diabetes should schedule an exam at least once a year or as recommended by their eye doctor.  
• Diagnosed diabetics are required to have an annual dilated eye exam. However, annual dilated eye exams can also help diagnose diabetes in people who may not realize they have it. By detecting this issue early on, you can work with your healthcare provider to take steps to manage your diabetes and minimize its impact on your overall health. 
• At VisionArts Eyecare Center in Fulton, our eye doctor specializes in diabetic eye exams and treating diabetic eye disease. We offer comprehensive eye exams to spot early warning signs of diseases and eye issues that can cause serious damage if left unchecked. We then work with you to develop treatment plans customized to your specific needs.    

What is diabetic eye disease?     

Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye problems that can affect people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, which can lead to a variety of issues such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, and glaucoma. These diseases can cause blurred vision or even blindness, and sometimes there aren’t any symptoms in the early stages. 

That’s why it’s so important to make sure you get regular eye exams! By catching these issues early, you can start treatment as soon as possible and take steps to protect your vision. 

Diabetic retinopathy     

Did you know that many people with diabetes can develop a condition called diabetic retinopathy? Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to vision loss or even complete blindness in people with diabetes. 

In the early stages, people may not have any noticeable signs or symptoms of diabetic retinopathy. However, over time, vision loss will start to occur as blood vessels bleed into the vitreous (the gel-like fluid that fills the eye). 

The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing this condition. If you have diabetes and become pregnant or develop gestational diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for diabetic retinopathy. 

Cataracts     

Cataracts are a common eye condition that occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, resulting in blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. While cataracts are common as people age, diabetics are more likely to develop them at an earlier age and more frequently than people without diabetes.  

Diabetic macular edema    

Diabetic macular edema is a complication that can occur in people with diabetes. It happens when fluid builds up in the macula, which is the part of the retina that’s responsible for clear, sharp central vision. This can cause swelling (edema) in the macula and can lead to vision problems or even blindness. 

Glaucoma     

Glaucoma, also known as the “silent thief of vision,” is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss with little or no pain or symptoms in the early stages. With regular comprehensive eye exams, glaucoma can be detected early on when treatment is most effective. Having diabetes increases your risk of developing this condition.  

Diagnosing diabetic eye disease    

Our eye doctor uses his expertise and advanced diagnostic technology to detect diabetic eye disease in its earliest stages.  

During a diabetic eye exam, our doctor will dilate your pupils to get a clear view of your retina, optic nerve, and the blood vessels in the back of your eye. In some cases, we may also use optical coherence tomography to create three-dimensional images of the blood vessels in your eyes.    

Preventing diabetic eye disease     

Taking steps to manage diabetes can help prevent or delay diabetic eye disease, including: 

• Keep your blood sugar levels under control. This is the most important thing you can do to prevent diabetic eye disease. Make sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing your diabetes and checking your blood sugar regularly. 
• Get regular eye exams. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, it’s important to have your eyes checked at least once a year by an eye doctor who is familiar with diabetic eye disease. Early detection and treatment can prevent or delay vision loss. 
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and not smoking can all help to reduce your risk of developing diabetic eye disease. 
• Take your medications as prescribed. If you have other health conditions in addition to diabetes, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, make sure to take your medications as directed by your doctor. This can help to reduce your risk of developing diabetic eye disease. 

Our eye doctor is here to help you manage your symptoms and prevent vision loss. Schedule an appointment with VisionArts Eyecare Center in Fulton for a comprehensive diabetic eye exam today.