Diabetes has a significant effect on the whole body, and that includes eyes. Without careful monitoring, diabetes could lead to vision loss and even blindness. The best way to monitor eye health and ensure your eyes are not in danger of diabetic eye disease is to have a diabetic eye health exam at least once a year.
Safeguard your eyesight and book your diabetic eye health exam today.
A diabetic eye health exam is similar to a standard adult eye health exam. We will check your distance vision, acuity, focus ability, eye teaming, and peripheral vision. The differences lie in the methods we use to look at your eye’s structural and physical health.
Because patients with diabetes are more prone to eye disease, we use all the diagnostic tools at our disposal to thoroughly search for any indication of disease. We will use drops to dilate your pupil; giving us a wider window through which to inspect the inner structure of your eye. We will use every method we can to ensure we have carefully examined every potential problem area in your eyes.
The term “diabetic eye disease” refers to any number of eye diseases brought on by diabetes. While this can refer to diseases that appear in patients who do not have diabetes (such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration) it most often refers to diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. The best way to catch diabetic eye disease before it causes permanent damage is through regular eye health exams.
When blood glucose levels are not properly regulated, it damages the blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or close. The body tries to regulate this problem by growing new blood vessels; however, they are often irregular and can actually contribute to the leakage. This bleeding can lead to vision-impairing scarring.
Left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to diabetic macular edema or DME. When damaged blood vessels bleed into the retina, it can result in retinal swelling; obscuring or even damaging the macula. Macular damage causes dark spots or shadows in central vision, making it difficult or nearly impossible to distinguish detail.
Every single member of our amazing team is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care. From the moment you enter our office to the second you leave, our team is ready and willing to give you the help you need. Whether it’s for another appointment, or simply a kind word and a smile, we are here for you.
We’re your local Airdrie optometrist, proudly serving our local Airdrie community. Our team is excited to meet you and become part of your family’s eye health. Find us on Main Street, just south of the Safeway in Tower Lane Mall.
* Closed on long weekends
Airdire Family Eye Doctors
