Those with diabetes need to be especially diligent about their eye health, as diabetic Retinopathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes. People with diabetes must receive regular eye exams to properly monitor and manage changes in vision due to this condition. But how often do they need these exams? Read on for an overview of Diabetic Eye Care and learn more about what type of eye care you should be doing if you are living with diabetes.
Diabetic Retinopathy
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication that can arise from diabetes that affects your vision. It is caused by elevated blood glucose levels in the eye, which can damage the small blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic Retinopathy can cause vision loss, blurry vision, and dark spots or floaters.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone with diabetes (particularly those who have had the condition for an extended period) is at risk of developing Diabetic Retinopathy. Those who do not closely manage their diabetes are more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy, so it’s crucial to stay on top of your blood sugar levels and health care.
How Can Diabetics Manage Diabetic Retinopathy?
The best way to manage Diabetic Retinopathy is with regular eye exams. People with diabetes should have their eyes checked at least once a year (or more often, depending on the severity of their diabetes). During the exam, an ophthalmologist will check for signs of Diabetic Retinopathy and can quickly and easily detect any vision changes that could be developing.
Diabetic Eye Exams
What Happens During a Diabetic Eye Exam?
During a diabetic eye exam, your ophthalmologist will use several diagnostic tools to check for Diabetic Retinopathy. It may include dilation of your pupils or a retinal exam using specialized digital imaging equipment. Your ophthalmologist may also test your peripheral vision, eye pressure, and color vision.
How Often Should Diabetics Have Eye Exams?
The answer to this question depends on the severity of diabetes, but most diabetics should have their eyes checked at least once per year. Those with severe diabetic Retinopathy or other changes in their vision should have more frequent exams (every 6-12 months). People with diabetes should talk to their doctor or ophthalmologist about how often they should be having Diabetic Eye Exams and get advice suited to their individual needs.
The Benefits of Regular Diabetic Eye Care
Regular Diabetic Eye Exams have several benefits. It can help detect Diabetic Retinopathy at its earliest stages, which can help prevent further vision loss or damage to the eyes. Regular Diabetic Eye Exams can also help monitor any changes in your vision and ensure that you get appropriate treatment for any issues that may arise.
The Bottom Line
Diabetes is a severe condition, and Diabetic Retinopathy is one of its most common complications. Therefore, those living with diabetes should get regular Diabetic Eye Exams to monitor and manage their eye health properly. People with diabetes should talk to their doctor or ophthalmologist about how often they need these exams. They should follow their advice closely to ensure their eyes stay healthy and function properly.
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication that can arise from diabetes that affects your vision. It is caused by elevated blood glucose levels in the eye, which can damage the small blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic Retinopathy can cause vision loss, blurry vision, and dark spots or floaters.
Anyone with diabetes (particularly those who have had the condition for an extended period) is at risk of developing Diabetic Retinopathy. Those who do not closely manage their diabetes are more likely to develop Diabetic Retinopathy as well.
The answer to this question depends on the severity of diabetes, but most diabetics should have their eyes checked at least once a year. Those with severe Diabetic Retinopathy or other changes in their vision should have more frequent exams (every 6-12 months). People with diabetes should talk to their doctor or ophthalmologist about how often they should be having Diabetic Eye Exams and get advice suited to their own needs.
