If you’re living with diabetes, you probably know the importance of monitoring your blood sugar and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many people don’t realize that diabetes can silently threaten vision, often without early warning signs. That’s why regular diabetic eye exams are crucial. By understanding the importance of these specialized exams, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your eyesight and prevent serious, diabetes-related eye damage.
 

How Diabetes Affects the Eyes

Diabetes can affect the blood vessels throughout your body, including the delicate vessels in your eyes. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes. Diabetes can also increase your risk for other eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
 

What Is a Diabetic Eye Exam?

A diabetic eye exam is a comprehensive eye evaluation designed to detect signs of diabetes-related eye diseases before any symptoms occur. During the exam, your optometrist will:

• Check your visual acuity to determine if your vision has changed.

• Dilate your pupils to get a clear view of the retina and optic nerve.

• Examine the blood vessels in your eyes for signs of damage or abnormal growth.

• Look for swelling or leakage that could indicate diabetic macular edema.

• Screen for cataracts and glaucoma, both of which occur more frequently in people with diabetes.
 

Early Detection Is Key

Diabetic eye diseases can progress with few or no symptoms until significant vision loss has occurred. Early detection through regular diabetic eye exams is critical. When caught early, most diabetes-related eye conditions can be managed or treated to prevent further vision loss. Delaying your exam, on the other hand, can put your eyesight at risk.
 

How Often Should You Schedule a Diabetic Eye Exam?

The American Diabetes Association recommends that anyone with diabetes have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. If you have already been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy or another eye condition, your optometrist may recommend more frequent visits. Even if your vision seems fine, annual exams are key to preserving your sight.
 

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today

Diabetes can impact your health in many ways, but vision loss doesn’t have to be one of them. With regular diabetic eye exams, you can detect problems early and take steps to protect your eyesight for years to come.

If you have diabetes, don’t wait until you notice changes in your vision. Protect your eyes by scheduling a diabetic eye exam at Eye Carumba Optometry today. Visit our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 360-6900 to book an appointment.