Your eyes can tell quite a bit about your health. According to the American Optometric Association, an eye exam can identify early warning signs of nearly 300 systemic and chronic diseases, including diabetes. Knowing that, a comprehensive eye examination is essentially a window into your whole health. In fact, it’s the only way for doctors to see your blood vessels without needing an X-ray, computer tomography (CT) scan or invasive surgery. Keep reading to learn how a visit with your eye doctor can bring signs of diabetes to light.
What Is a Diabetic Eye Exam?
While a basic eye exam screens for general vision problems, a diabetic eye exam is a specialized evaluation specifically designed to detect and monitor diabetes-related eye diseases.
In addition to incorporating the elements of a standard eye exam, a diabetic eye exam will include time to share a detailed family health history, measure your eye pressure and dilate your pupils to get a clear picture of your retinas.
A diabetic eye exam can detect conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma or diabetic macular edema in their early stages, often before you even notice any symptoms, and it’s highly recommended to schedule follow-up exams yearly if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
Early Signs of Diabetes in the Eyes
High blood sugar can affect your eyesight over time, but the signs aren’t always noticeable right away. Even still, it’s important to take notice of any symptoms you may experience and talk to an eye doctor. Common concerns that can be linked to diabetes include:
- Blurry vision
- Faded color perception
- Floaters or dark spots
- Poor night vision
- Sudden changes in vision
If you experience these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Left unchecked, your symptoms can worsen and cause permanent damage to your eye health. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam and be sure to voice any concerns to your eye doctor right away.
Why Early Detection Matters
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults, and other diabetes-related eye diseases can lead to permanent vision loss, too. Finding and treating your condition early can help you take steps sooner to protect your vision.
Managing your diabetes by keeping your blood sugar levels in a healthy range and scheduling regular eye exams is the best way to help support your eye health and prevent further complications, including partial vision loss or blindness. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, it’s important to monitor your condition regularly and establish expert diabetes care.
Helping You See a Clear Picture of Your Whole Health
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or are simply staying proactive, a comprehensive eye examination could be the first step toward better health. Our skilled eye care experts can detect early signs of diabetes and treat a wide range of diabetes-related eye conditions, including cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. From routine screenings to advanced treatments, we’re here to help you protect your sight. Learn more and find an eye care specialist near you today.
