A regular eye exam can play a crucial role in detecting and managing diabetes and help with treatment options to prevent vision loss. If you have just been diagnosed with diabetes, speak to your Doctor of Optometry for a thorough eye exam. Find A Doctor and book a test here.
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is the most serious eye problem associated with diabetes. It occurs when there is a weakening or swelling of the tiny blood vessels in the retina of your eye. This may result in blood leakage, the growth of new blood vessels, and other changes. If diabetic retinopathy is left untreated, blindness can result.
Can vision loss from Diabetic Retinopathy be prevented?
Yes, in a routine eye examination, your Doctor of Optometry can provide helpful diagnoses that may be treated to prevent blindness. It is important to detect diabetic retinopathy early, as treatment is much more likely to be successful, as once damage has occurred, the effects can be permanent.
How is Diabetic Retinopathy treated?
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy is monitored through eye health examinations. If necessary, it may be treated with intraocular injections of anti-VEGF therapy (Lucentis, Avastin, Eylea), laser therapy, or intraocular surgery.
Are there risk factors for developing Diabetic Retinopathy?
Several factors that increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy include:
- Poorly controlled blood sugar levels
- The number of years you have had diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Drinking alcohol and pregnancy
How can diabetes-related eye problems be prevented and managed?
- See your Doctor of Optometry for a thorough eye examination when you are first diagnosed with diabetes for a complete assessment including retinal evaluation, and regularly after that as directed by your optometrist
- Monitor and maintain control of your diabetes
- See your physician regularly and follow instructions about diet, exercise, and medication
For more information on what diabetes is and how it affects the eye, read our webpage Diabetes And Your Eyes here and visit the Diabetes Canada website.