Diabetes and your vision: why the annual exam is not optional

If you have diabetes, an annual eye exam is not general advice: it is part of managing your condition, the same as monitoring your glucose.

Why

Diabetes affects small blood vessels, and the retina — the layer at the back of the eye that turns light into an image — is made of small blood vessels. Over time, high glucose levels can damage them.

The important part: that damage begins without symptoms. It does not hurt or itch, and vision stays good for a considerable time. By the time a symptom shows up, the process has been underway for a while. That is why the exam does not wait for you to notice something.

What is checked

An evaluation of the back of the eye, which allows the retina to be viewed directly. The check does not hurt. Depending on the case, drops are used to dilate the pupil for a better view; if so, it is worth bringing someone along or not driving afterward, since vision stays blurry for a couple of hours.

What you can do

• An eye exam every year, even if your vision is perfect.
• Keep your glucose under control: that is what protects the retina most.
• Manage blood pressure and cholesterol too.
• Do not smoke.
• Tell us you have diabetes when you book, so we can plan the time and equipment.

When not to wait

Call before your annual check if you notice blurry vision that comes and goes, new floating spots or strands, dark areas in your field of vision, or if one eye sees worse than the other.

Coordinated with your doctor

An eye check does not replace your primary care doctor or endocrinologist: it works alongside them. We are glad to share what we find so your care moves in one direction.

If you have diabetes and it has been more than a year since your last exam, book now and mention it when you call.