Diabetic Eye Exams: Why Yearly Checks Protect Your Vision
If you have diabetes, a yearly eye exam is one of the most important things you can do to protect your sight. Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina long before you notice any change in your vision. At Uptown Eye Boutique in Johns Creek, Dr. Brian Schultz performs diabetic eye exams to catch these changes early.
How diabetes affects the eyes
High blood sugar over time can weaken and damage the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy. In its early stages, vessels may leak small amounts of blood or fluid. In later stages, the eye can grow fragile new vessels that bleed easily or cause scar tissue. Fluid can also collect in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, which is called diabetic macular edema.
Diabetes also raises the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.
Why you may not notice it
Diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms in its early stages. Your vision can seem perfectly fine while damage is already developing. By the time blurry vision, floaters or dark spots appear, the condition may be more advanced. That's why regular exams matter even when you see well.
What a diabetic eye exam includes
A review of your diabetes history, blood sugar control and other health conditions
A vision check and eye pressure measurement
A detailed look at the retina, usually with dilation so the doctor can see the whole retina
Retinal imaging to record the retina and compare it year to year
An OCT scan when needed to check for swelling in the macula
After the exam, Dr. Schultz can send a report to your primary care doctor or endocrinologist so your care team stays informed.
How often to get checked
Most guidelines recommend a dilated eye exam at least once a year for people with diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes should have their first exam soon after diagnosis, because the condition may have been present for some time before it was found. If any retinopathy is found, Dr. Schultz may recommend more frequent visits.
Protecting your eyes between visits
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in your target range lowers the risk of diabetic eye disease and helps slow it if it's already present. Call promptly if you notice sudden blurry vision, new floaters, flashes of light or a curtain over part of your vision.
Learn more
A diabetic eye check is part of our comprehensive eye exams in Johns Creek. Because diabetes also raises glaucoma risk, you may also want to read about our glaucoma testing.
Frequently asked questions
Is a diabetic eye exam covered by insurance?
A diabetic eye exam is often billed to medical insurance rather than a vision plan, since it monitors a medical condition. Our team can help you check your coverage; see the insurance plans we accept.
Do I need to be dilated?
Dilation is usually recommended for diabetic eye exams because it gives the clearest view of the entire retina. Bring sunglasses and plan for light sensitivity for a few hours afterward.
Can diabetic retinopathy be treated?
Yes. When it's found early, it can be monitored closely, and if treatment is needed, Dr. Schultz will refer you to a retina specialist. Early detection gives the best chance of protecting your vision.
Uptown Eye Boutique is open Monday through Saturday in Johns Creek, GA. Comprehensive eye exams are provided by Dr. Brian Schultz, OD.
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