How Often Should Diabetics Get Their Eyes Checked?

Living with diabetes means keeping a close eye on your overall health and that includes your vision. Diabetes can have a significant impact on the eyes, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting changes early and preventing vision loss.
 

How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes

High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes over time. This can lead to fluid leakage, swelling, or abnormal blood vessel growth, all of which can interfere with clear vision. Without proper management and monitoring, diabetes can cause progressive eye diseases that threaten sight.
 

Common Diabetic-Related Eye Conditions

People with diabetes are at higher risk for several serious eye conditions, including:

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the retina caused by weakened blood vessels that may leak or bleed. This is the leading cause of blindness among adults with diabetes.

• Diabetic Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula (the central part of the retina) leading to blurred or distorted vision.

• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can occur earlier and progress faster in people with diabetes.

• Glaucoma: Increased pressure inside the eye that can damage the optic nerve, leading to gradual vision loss.

Early detection and treatment of these conditions are key to preserving eyesight.
 

What Is a Diabetic Eye Exam?

A diabetic eye exam is a comprehensive evaluation specifically designed to assess how diabetes is affecting your vision and eye health. During the exam, your eye doctor will:

• Dilate your pupils to examine the retina and optic nerve

• Check for early signs of diabetic retinopathy or macular edema

• Measure intraocular pressure (to check for glaucoma)

• Evaluate visual acuity and overall eye health

These exams are non-invasive and can often detect issues long before you experience symptoms.
 

How Often Should Diabetics Get Eye Exams?

The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. However, some individuals may need more frequent exams, including:

• Those with existing diabetic eye disease

• People whose blood sugar levels are not well controlled

• Pregnant women with diabetes (as pregnancy can accelerate eye changes)

Your eye doctor will personalize your exam schedule based on your unique health history and current eye findings.
 

Protect Your Vision with First Class Eye Care

We provide comprehensive diabetic eye exams using the latest diagnostic technology to safeguard your vision. Our experienced doctors specialize in detecting and managing diabetic-related eye conditions before they lead to vision loss.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam at  First Class Eye Care and take the first step toward protecting your sight for years to come. Contact our office in Duluth, Georgia, by calling (404) 793-3937 to book an appointment today.