Why Diabetic Eye Exams Are Important

Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This condition can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. A diabetic eye exam is crucial in catching early signs of retinopathy, as well as other conditions like glaucoma and macular edema. Early detection and treatment can prevent permanent vision loss.

How Often Should Diabetic Patients Have Eye Exams?

If you have diabetes, it’s important to have a comprehensive diabetic eye exam at least once a year. Even if you’re not experiencing any vision problems, regular exams allow us to catch any early signs of eye disease before they become more serious. If you have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, we may recommend more frequent exams to closely monitor your condition.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

Our diabetic eye exams are designed to thoroughly evaluate the health of your eyes. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Retinal Imaging: We use advanced retinal imaging technology to capture detailed images of the back of your eye. This allows us to detect any changes to the blood vessels that could indicate diabetic retinopathy.
  • Dilated Eye Exam: During your exam, we will dilate your pupils to get a better view of your retina and optic nerve. This helps us detect any early signs of diabetic eye disease.
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test provides cross-sectional images of your retina, allowing us to detect swelling or fluid buildup caused by diabetic macular edema.
  • Glaucoma Screening: Diabetic patients are at an increased risk for glaucoma. We measure your eye pressure and check for signs of optic nerve damage.

Preventing Diabetic Eye Diseases

Along with regular eye exams, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing diabetic eye diseases:

  • Keep your blood sugar levels within your target range.
  • Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
  • Quit smoking, as it increases the risk of eye diseases.

These lifestyle changes, combined with regular eye care, can help protect your vision.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Eye Conditions

If we detect signs of diabetic retinopathy or other eye conditions during your exam, our optometrists will discuss your treatment options depending on the stage of retinopathy that is found. These may include:

  • Working with your family doctor/ endocrinologist to better control your sugar levels
  • Laser Treatment: To seal or shrink leaking blood vessels in the retina.
  • Injections: Anti-VEGF injections may be used to reduce swelling in the retina and slow the progression of diabetic macular edema.
  • Surgery: In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to prevent vision loss.

Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your condition and protect your eyesight.

Book an appointment

At Victoria Village Optometry, we’re committed to helping our diabetic patients protect their vision. Regular eye exams are the best way to catch eye diseases early and prevent permanent vision damage. Schedule your diabetic eye exam today and take the first step toward safeguarding your vision.

Address

1315 Lawrence Avenue East, Unit 513, Toronto, ON, M3A 3R3, Canada

Contact

416-759-6060

info@myvvo.ca