What is diabetic eye disease?
Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that affects people who have diabetes. Diabetic eye disease may cause severe vision loss and even blindness. This can result in the following:
Why is Diabetic eye disease awareness so important?
Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and many people are asymptomatic during the early stages. Detecting it early, treating it timeously and monitoring it regularly is the only way to maintain good vision.
How often should diabetics have an eye exam?
Patients with diabetes require special care not only in managing their blood sugar levels, but to ensure that they receive holistic care to maintain a good quality of life. It is important to schedule a comprehensive eye test at least once a year to assess for potential eye complications like cataracts, optic nerve damage and macular swelling that can occur with diabetes. Your optometrist may ask to see you more often depending on the outcome of your eye exam.
A comprehensive eye exam will include checking for:
Contact your local Optical Alliance Optometrist to book a comprehensive eye exam.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Make your vision and well being a priority.