Managing diabetes involves more than monitoring blood sugar. High blood sugar levels can affect your eyes, sometimes with little warning.
At Konocti View Optometry, we offer diabetic eye exams in Lakeport to detect early signs of vision changes and prevent serious complications. Our skilled optometrist can spot problems before they cause noticeable vision loss. In this blog, we discuss what diabetic eyes can look like, what changes to watch for, and how regular eye care protects your sight.
How diabetes affects the eyes
Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage is known as diabetic retinopathy, and it often develops without early symptoms. Signs of diabetic retinopathy can include:
- Blurry vision or fluctuating vision clarity
- Dark spots or floaters in your visual field
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Areas of vision loss
In some cases, untreated diabetic eye issues can lead to serious complications or even blindness. Regular monitoring is key to preventing permanent vision loss.
Other eye conditions to watch for
People with diabetes may also be at higher risk for other eye problems, including:
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, which can appear earlier in people with diabetes.
A comprehensive eye exam helps detect these conditions early, allowing for prompt treatment before damage occurs.
What does a diabetic eye exam consist of?
During a diabetic eye exam, our experienced optometrist will:
- Check visual acuity and eye health
- Examine the retina for signs of blood vessel damage
- Measure eye pressure to assess glaucoma risk
- Evaluate the optic nerve for early changes
We may also use advanced imaging to track subtle changes over time, ensuring early detection and intervention.
RETeval® ERG testing
Our experienced team offers RETeval® ERG testing as part of your diabetic eye exam. This quick, non-invasive test measures the electrical activity in your retina, helping us detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy and other retinal issues before symptoms appear.
By tracking how your retina responds to changes in blood sugar, RETeval® ERG allows us to catch problems early and provide more effective treatment. ERG testing is included in the Preferred Practice Pattern® Guidelines for diabetic retinopathy, highlighting its value in early retinal disease detection.
EyePromise® DVS nutritional support eye vitamin
Konocti View Optometry also offers EyePromise® DVS, formulated with antioxidants to improve visual function and support retinal health without impacting normal blood sugar levels. This nutritional support complements regular eye care and helps protect your vision alongside routine exams and treatments.
Protecting your vision
In summary, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, managing blood pressure, and scheduling annual eye exams are essential for protecting your eyes. If you have diabetes, booking consistent eye exams can prevent or slow vision loss. Early treatment options for diabetic eye conditions, including interventions for retinal damage, are highly effective when caught early.
Call or text our office today to schedule a diabetic eye exam!