Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, and one of its most serious complications is its impact on vision. Diabetic eye disease is a group of conditions that can cause severe vision impairment or even blindness if left untreated. At Eye To Eye Optometry, we emphasize the importance of early detection and proactive care to help protect your eyesight.

How Diabetes Affects Your Vision

Diabetes impacts the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, which can damage the delicate blood vessels in the eyes. Over time, this damage increases the risk of developing several serious eye conditions.

Diabetic Retinopathy
One of the most common complications of diabetes, diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. These damaged vessels can leak fluid or bleed, leading to vision problems. In more advanced stages, abnormal new blood vessels may form, increasing the risk of retinal detachment and severe vision loss.

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)
DME is a complication of diabetic retinopathy that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. When fluid accumulates in the macula, it can cause swelling and blurred vision, significantly impacting daily activities like reading or driving.

Cataracts
People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cataracts at an earlier age. Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or dim vision.

Glaucoma
Diabetes also increases the risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve due to increased eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss.

The Importance of Regular Diabetic Eye Exams

Early detection is the key to preventing vision loss from diabetic eye disease. Many of these conditions develop slowly and may not show symptoms in their early stages. Annual eye exams—or more frequent exams if recommended by our doctor—are essential for catching changes early. Regular diabetic eye exams allow for early intervention, significantly reducing the risk of severe vision impairment.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

When you visit Eye To Eye Optometry for a diabetic eye exam, we will conduct a thorough evaluation of your eye health, including:

Dilated Eye Exam – We use special drops to widen your pupils, allowing us to examine the retina and optic nerve for signs of diabetic damage.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – This imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, helping to detect swelling or abnormalities.
Retinal Photography – High-resolution images of the retina are taken to track changes over time.
Eye Pressure Measurement – This test checks for elevated eye pressure, a key indicator of glaucoma.

Our goal is to detect and address any early signs of diabetic eye disease before they progress to more serious complications. If you are diagnosed with a condition, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, ensuring the best possible care and management for your eye health.

Trust Eye To Eye Optometry for Your Diabetic Eye Care

At Eye To Eye Optometry, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care for individuals with diabetes. Our optometrists use advanced diagnostic technology to monitor and manage diabetic eye disease, ensuring that your vision remains as clear and healthy as possible.

If you have diabetes, schedule your diabetic eye exam in Antioch, CA, today and take the first step toward protecting your vision.