Diabetic Eye Exams
Diabetes affects more than just your blood sugar—it can have a significant impact on your overall health, including your eyes. High blood sugar levels can lead to severe eye complications, some of which may cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Spectrum Eye Physicians provides diabetic eye exams to help you stay on top of your health.
We provide expert care for patients across the Bay Area, with convenient locations to help you protect your vision and health.
The Importance of Diabetic Eye Exams
Eye exams are essential for individuals with diabetes because the condition increases the risk of several serious eye diseases. High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to complications like diabetic retinopathy and macular edema.
By monitoring your eye health regularly, we can catch problems early, create a tailored treatment plan, and help you preserve your vision. Diabetic eye exams are also important in managing your overall health, as they can provide insight into how well your diabetes is being controlled.
What Happens During The Exam?
Our eye examinations are thorough, focusing on detecting the earliest signs of diabetes-related eye conditions. During your visit, you can expect:
- Vision Testing: Assessing how well you see at various distances.
- Dilation: Using eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing your eye doctor to examine the retina and optic nerve for signs of damage.
- Retinal Imaging: Advanced imaging tests like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to detect subtle changes in the retina and macula.
- Checking for Eye Conditions: Screening for diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts.
The exam is painless and provides a complete picture of your eye health.
Eye Conditions Related to Diabetes
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which can cause vision loss or blindness if untreated.
- Diabetic Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can develop more quickly in people with diabetes.
How Often Should You Have a Diabetic Eye Exam?
The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. However, you may need more frequent exams if:
- You have existing eye conditions.
- Your blood sugar levels are not well-controlled.
- You are pregnant, as pregnancy can increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
Did You Know?
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20 to 74, but 90% of diabetes-related vision loss can be prevented with early detection and care.
Are You at Risk?
People with diabetes are twice as likely to develop glaucoma and up to 60% more likely to develop cataracts compared to those without diabetes.
Eye Care Tips for Diabetic Patients
Taking steps to manage your diabetes can help reduce the risk of eye complications. Here are some tips to protect your vision:
- Maintain Blood Sugar Levels: Keep your blood sugar under control to reduce damage to your eyes.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High blood pressure and cholesterol can worsen eye complications.
- Follow a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking.
- Attend Regular Eye Exams: Early detection is key to preventing vision loss.
Your vision is too important to take chances with. Spectrum Eye Physicians provides diabetic eye care using advanced technology and a compassionate approach. Contact us to schedule your diabetic eye exam and take the first step toward protecting your sight and health. With convenient locations across the Bay Area, expert care is always close to home.