Diabetic Eye Exams

Have Type 2 Diabetes? Here’s Why Eye Exams Are Non-Negotiable

If you’re living with Type 2 diabetes, you already know how important it is to keep your blood sugar in check. But what many people don’t realize is that diabetes doesn’t just affect your blood—it affects your eyes too.

Diabetic eye complications can sneak up without obvious symptoms, and by the time you notice changes in your vision, it may already be serious.

That’s why regular diabetic eye exams aren’t optional—they’re essential.

The Hidden Risk: Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes. It happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in your retina, the light-sensitive part of your eye responsible for sending images to your brain.

When these vessels start to leak or swell, they can scar the retina and cause vision loss—and in severe cases, permanent blindness.

Here’s the tricky part: you won’t feel this happening. Diabetic retinopathy usually progresses silently until your vision starts to decline. But by then, damage may already be done.

Are You at Risk?

If you have Type 2 diabetes, the answer is yes. Some factors increase your risk, such as:

• Poorly controlled blood sugar
  

• Having diabetes for many years
  

• High blood pressure
  

• High cholesterol
  

• Pregnancy

Even if your vision seems fine now, diabetic retinopathy can develop without symptoms. That’s why preventive care is your best defense.

What Happens During a Diabetic Eye Exam?

A diabetic eye exam is quick, painless, and incredibly important. Most of the time, it’s included in your regular comprehensive eye exam. Here’s what you can expect:

• Dilated Eye Exam: You’ll get special drops to widen your pupils so your doctor can get a clear view of your retina. These drops may cause slight stinging and blurred vision for a few hours.
  

• Retinal Imaging: Using a special camera, your doctor will take pictures of the back of your eye to look for any early signs of damage.
  

• Vision Tests: You’ll read a standard eye chart to check how well you see both near and far.

None of these tests hurt. They’re non-invasive and only take a short time—but they give your doctor a powerful view into the health of your eyes.

Why It Matters

Skipping eye exams can cost you your vision. Early detection of diabetic retinopathy gives you the best chance to stop or slow the damage. In some cases, treatment might involve:

• Adjusting your diabetes management
  

• Prescription medications
  

• Laser treatments or surgery to preserve your sight
  

​​​​​​​Your eye doctor will walk you through your results and work with your primary care provider to protect your eyes and your health.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Show Up

If you or a loved one has Type 2 diabetes, don’t wait for blurry vision or eye pain. By the time symptoms appear, damage could already be done.
We’re here to help you stay ahead of it. Call today to schedule your diabetic eye exam. It’s a simple step that could protect your sight for years to come.