You have almost certainly heard of diabetes, which is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States with an estimated 100 million adults currently living with diabetes or pre-diabetes. This metabolic disorder occurs when the body is no longer able to regulate its own blood sugar levels and requires intervention to keep them stable. Most people are aware that diabetes can have serious consequences for our health. However, you may be surprised to learn that it can also influence our vision. This is because patients who are diabetic can go on to develop a complication that is known as diabetic retinopathy. Without prompt treatment, diabetic retinopathy can cause permanent vision loss. It is for this reason that patients who suffer from diabetes are asked to attend regular diabetic-related eye exams.

What is diabetic retinopathy?

For us to be able to see clearly, our eyes need to be healthy and functioning perfectly. The most important component of our eye is the retina. Found at the very back of the eye, the retina is a patch of light-sensitive cells that have the job of converting the light that passes into the eye into messages that are passed up the optic nerve and into our brain. Our brain then receives them and tells us what we can see and how clearly we can see it.

The retina relies on a continuous supply of blood, which is delivered using a network of tiny blood vessels. Over time, having continuously high blood glucose can damage these blood vessels causing a leak of blood and other fluids onto the retina. If this happens near the macula, vision can be temporarilly or permanently damaged.

Am I at risk of diabetic retinopathy?

Technically, anyone who suffers from diabetes, whether it be Type 1 or Type 2, could be at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. However, the condition is more likely in certain situations. These include if:

• your blood sugar levels are uncontrolled or poorly controlled

• you have a long history of diabetes

• you have high blood pressure (hypertension)

• you suffer from high cholesterol

• you are pregnant

Regular diabetic-related eye exams will enable your eye doctor to monitor your condition and ensure that any signs of diabetic retinopathy are detected and acted upon immediately.

What to expect from diabetic-related eye exams?

The process of a diabetic eye exam is very simple and straightforward. In fact, in most instances, it is included within the other elements of comprehensive eye exam and you may not even realize that you have had a specific test to check for diabetes-related complications.

Diabetic eye screening is non-invasive. First, several questions will be asked in regards to current state of the diabetic condition, as well as, other providers who may be involved. A special camera is used to take images of the retina in each eye so that the doctor can assess for any abnormalities. Additionally eye drops may be used to dilate the pupils so the doctor can get a better look. Inside of the eyes, the doctor will evaluate for diabetic complications such as macular edema, glaucoma, or diabetic cataracts.

The information that your eye doctor will obtain from your examination will reveal if the diabetes is negatively effecting the eyes. If so, they will discuss the best way to get your condition under control. This could involve a combination of elements, including controlling your diabetes more effectively, taking medications or more invasive treatment to preserve your vision. Your eye doctor will give you more specific information based on your individual circumstances.

If you have further questions about diabetic-related eye exams, please contact our knowledgeable eye care team.