Diabetes is one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss in adults. When blood sugar levels remain elevated over time, they can damage the delicate blood vessels that supply the retina — the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage is called diabetic retinopathy, and it can progress silently for years before affecting your vision. Regular diabetic eye exams are the most powerful tool available for catching this damage early.
At Eyecare Optometry of Redondo Beach, we perform comprehensive diabetic eye evaluations that go beyond standard vision testing. We use advanced retinal imaging technology to examine the back of the eye in detail, identifying even the earliest signs of diabetic changes before they impact your sight.
What Diabetic Eye Disease Includes
Diabetes can affect the eyes in several ways, including:
- Diabetic retinopathy — damage to the retina's blood vessels, which can leak fluid or bleed
- Diabetic macular edema — swelling in the central retina that blurs central vision
- Glaucoma — diabetics have a significantly higher risk of developing glaucoma
- Cataracts — diabetics tend to develop cataracts earlier and more rapidly than the general population
How Often Should Diabetics Have Eye Exams?
The American Diabetes Association recommends a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once per year for all people with diabetes. Patients with existing retinopathy or other complications may need more frequent monitoring. Even if your vision seems perfectly clear, this does not mean your eyes are unaffected — early-stage diabetic retinopathy is often asymptomatic.
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under good control significantly slows the progression of diabetic eye disease. Combined with annual exams and prompt treatment when needed, this approach gives you the best chance of preserving your vision for life. If you have diabetes and haven't had an eye exam recently, contact us to schedule your visit today.