Diabetic retinopathy is an ocular manifestation of diabetes, a systemic disease, which affects up to 80 percent of all patients who have had diabetes for 10 years or more. The longer a person has diabetes, the higher his or her chances are of developing diabetic retinopathy. Ocular disease in Elmhurst, New York, is a growing concern as diabetes continues to impact more individuals across diverse communities.
Despite these intimidating statistics, research indicates that at least 90 percent of new cases could be reduced. Education on diabetic eye disease and retinopathy is especially important because it is often preventable or treatable. Unfortunately, this means it can go unnoticed in the early stages. As the disease progresses, permanent vision loss is a real possibility if the patient does not receive treatment.
There are multiple forms of diabetic retinopathy, and only your eye care provider can determine your particular form. With one form, blood vessels may swell and leak fluid. In another, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the surface of the retina.
In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, many do not notice a change in their vision because there are few to no symptoms. If an eye doctor does not catch diabetic retinopathy early, one could sustain mild blurriness at near or far distances, as well as floaters. In severe cases, a sudden loss of vision may occur.
Unfortunately, diabetic retinopathy can result in permanent damage that cannot be reversed. However, if caught in time, prescribed treatments may slow development and prevent vision loss.
What’s Included in a Diabetic Eye Exam
A diabetic eye exam typically includes:
- Pupil dilation to examine the back of the eye
- Digital imaging or optical coherence tomography (OCT)
- Evaluation for retinal bleeding, swelling, or abnormal vessels
- Intraocular pressure testing for glaucoma risk
- Counseling on diabetes management and vision health
When to Begin and How Often to Schedule
People diagnosed with diabetes should begin eye screenings as soon as possible following diagnosis. For those with type 1 diabetes, screenings typically begin within five years; for type 2, exams should start at diagnosis. Frequency is based on individual risk factors, but annual exams are standard unless advised otherwise by an ophthalmologist. Women with diabetes who become pregnant should schedule an exam early in pregnancy, as the condition may accelerate retinopathy. Sticking to the recommended schedule improves outcomes and helps protect vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding diabetic eye exams helps improve patient awareness and outcomes. This section addresses commonly asked questions about the purpose, process, and timing of diabetic eye exams.
What is diabetic retinopathy, and how is it detected?
How often should someone with diabetes get an eye exam?
Is diabetic eye disease preventable?
What symptoms might indicate diabetic eye problems?
Can diabetic eye exams detect other eye conditions?
Are diabetic eye exams covered by insurance?
What happens if diabetic retinopathy is found?
Your Eyes Deserve Dedicated Attention
Protect your vision with expert care—schedule your comprehensive eye exam today! Book an appointment now and see the world more clearly.