Understanding the Importance of Diabetic Eye Exams

Understanding the Importance of Diabetic Eye Exams

Managing diabetes involves more than monitoring blood sugar levels—it’s also about protecting your overall health, including your vision. Diabetes can significantly impact your eyes, making regular diabetic eye exams essential. At DeNovo Eye, we prioritize your eye health and aim to provide the best care for those managing diabetes.

Why Are Diabetic Eye Exams Important?

Diabetes increases the risk of several eye conditions that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Early detection and proactive care can prevent complications and preserve your eyesight. Key conditions linked to diabetes include:
 

•          Diabetic Retinopathy: High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in your retina, leading to leakage or abnormal growth of blood vessels. This condition is the leading cause of blindness among working-age adults.

•          Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Swelling in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision, can occur due to diabetic retinopathy.

•          Cataracts: People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age.

•          Glaucoma: Diabetes doubles the risk of glaucoma, a condition caused by increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve.

How Often Should You Get a Diabetic Eye Exam?

The American Diabetes Association recommends annual comprehensive eye exams for people with diabetes. If you are experiencing symptoms such as blurry vision, floaters, or difficulty seeing at night, it’s essential to schedule an appointment sooner.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

Our goal is to make your diabetic eye exam thorough and comfortable. Here’s what the process involves:
 

•       Medical History Review: We’ll discuss your diabetes management, medications, and any vision changes you’ve noticed.

•       Visual Acuity Test: This test measures the clarity of your vision and identifies any issues with your sight.

•       Dilated Eye Exam: Using eye drops to dilate your pupils, we can examine the retina and optic nerve for signs of diabetic damage.

•       Imaging and Specialized Testing: Advanced imaging technologies, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography, provide detailed views of the retina and help us detect early signs of disease.

Protect Your Vision with DeNovo Eye

Your eyes are your window to the world, and preserving your vision is vital for maintaining a high quality of life. Regular diabetic eye exams are a simple yet powerful step to protect your eyesight and detect potential issues before they become severe.

If you’re living with diabetes, schedule your diabetic eye exam with DeNovo Eye to ensure your vision stays clear and healthy for years to come. Visit our office in McKinney, Texas, or call (469) 317-2020 to book an appointment today.