Diabetic Eye Exams: How Often You Need One, and Why
Diabetes is common across South Texas, and diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. The hard part is that it usually causes no symptoms until damage is advanced. The good news is that when we catch it early, treatment works very well.
What diabetes does to the eye
High blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensing layer at the back of the eye. Over time those vessels can leak fluid, causing swelling in the center of vision (diabetic macular edema). In later stages, fragile new vessels grow and can bleed or pull on the retina.
Diabetes also raises the risk of cataracts and glaucoma, and both tend to show up earlier in people with diabetes.
How often you need an exam
- Type 2 diabetes: a dilated eye exam at diagnosis, then every year
- Type 1 diabetes: within 5 years of diagnosis, then every year
- Pregnancy with diabetes: an exam early in pregnancy, with follow-up as your eye doctor advises
- If retinopathy is found: more often, sometimes every few months
These intervals follow American Diabetes Association guidance.
A photo screening at your primary care office is helpful, but it doesn't replace a full dilated exam when problems are found.
What we check
At a diabetic eye exam, we dilate your pupils to see the whole retina, and usually take an OCT scan. The OCT shows swelling in the retina's layers, often before you notice any change in vision.
Treatment if retinopathy is found
Early retinopathy often needs only monitoring and better control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. When swelling or abnormal vessels threaten vision, treatment includes injections of medicines like Avastin or Eylea, and retinal laser. I provide both, close to home. Learn more about retina injections.
Warning signs: call right away
- Sudden blurry vision, or a dark curtain over part of your vision
- A shower of new floaters or flashes of light
- Straight lines looking wavy
Call 830-379-3937 to schedule your diabetic eye exam in San Antonio, New Braunfels, Seguin or San Marcos.
For educational purposes. This page explains common conditions and treatments to help you prepare for your visit. Your exam determines the right plan for your eyes.
