You have almost certainly heard of diabetes — one of the most common chronic health conditions in the United States, with more than 100 million adults currently living with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the body can no longer properly regulate blood sugar levels. Most people are aware that diabetes can lead to serious health complications, but many are surprised to learn that it can also significantly impact vision.

One of the most serious eye-related complications is diabetic retinopathy. Without early detection and prompt treatment, diabetic retinopathy can cause permanent vision loss. This is why individuals with diabetes are strongly encouraged to schedule regular diabetic-related eye exams.

What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Clear vision depends on a healthy retina — the layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye responsible for converting incoming light into signals that are sent up the optic nerve to the brain. The retina requires a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood, delivered through a network of tiny, delicate blood vessels.

When blood sugar levels are consistently high, these blood vessels can become damaged and begin leaking blood or fluid onto the retina. Over time, this leakage can lead to scarring, swelling, and distortion of the retina, all of which can severely compromise vision.

Am I at Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy?

Anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. However, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition:

Poorly controlled or fluctuating blood sugar levels
Long-standing history of diabetes
High blood pressure (hypertension)
High cholesterol
Pregnancy

Routine diabetic-related eye exams allow your optometrist to monitor your eye health closely and detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy before vision loss occurs.

What to Expect During a Diabetic-Related Eye Exam

Diabetic eye exams are simple, non-invasive, and often included as part of a comprehensive eye exam. You may not even realize that certain portions of the exam are specifically designed to screen for diabetes-related changes.

Dilated Eye Examination

Your doctor will administer dilating eye drops to widen your pupils. These may temporarily sting and will blur your vision for several hours. Once your eyes are dilated, the doctor will use specialized equipment to examine the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels for signs of leakage, swelling, or abnormal growth.

Retinal Imaging

You’ll rest your head on a device and look through a lens while a camera captures detailed images of the back of your eye. You may see a brief flash during each photo, but the process should be completely painless.

Visual Acuity Testing

This includes reading letters on a wall chart and a near-vision card. These tests help your doctor determine how well you can see and whether vision changes may be related to diabetic retinopathy.

Understanding Your Results

The information gathered during your exam will allow your optometrist to determine whether you are experiencing any signs of diabetic retinopathy. If early changes are detected, your doctor will discuss the best approach for managing the condition. Treatment recommendations might include: