If you have diabetes, it is important to have regular eye exams. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your eyes, which can lead to vision loss. Early detection and treatment of diabetic eye disease can help to prevent or slow the progression of vision loss.

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How often should I get an eye exam?

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The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people with diabetes have a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once a year. If you have diabetic retinopathy, you may need to have more frequent eye exams. Your eye doctor can help you determine how often you should have an eye exam.

 

What happens during a diabetic eye exam?

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During a diabetic eye exam, your eye doctor will:

• Check your vision

• Measure the pressure inside your eyes

• Look for signs of diabetic retinopathy

• Dilate your pupils (using eye drops) to get a better look at the back of your eyes

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If your eye doctor finds any signs of diabetic retinopathy, they may recommend additional tests, such as:

• Fluorescein angiography (FA): This test uses a dye to highlight the blood vessels in your eyes. This can help your eye doctor to see any damage to the blood vessels in your eyes.

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This test uses sound waves to create detailed images of the back of your eyes. This can help your eye doctor to see any damage to the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye.

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How can I prevent diabetic eye disease?

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There is no cure for diabetic eye disease, but there are things you can do to help prevent it or slow its progression. These include:

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• Controlling your blood sugar levels

• Controlling your blood pressure

• Quitting smoking

• Eating a healthy diet

• Exercising regularly

• Taking your medications as prescribed by your doctor

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If you have diabetes, it is important to take care of your eyes. By having regular eye exams and taking steps to prevent diabetic eye disease, you can protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.

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