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Diabetic Eye Exam Specialist

iSight Vision Care -  - Ophthalmologist

iSight Vision Care

Ophthalmologist & Optometrist located in Fountain Valley, CA

For further information about diabetic eye exams, schedule an appointment with Dr. Vicki Lin and Dr. Jennifer Yong at iSight Vision Care in Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach, California.

Diabetic Eye Exams Q&A

Why do diabetics need eye exams?

Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults. Diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. It damages small blood vessels in the eye as well. Even if diabetes is well controlled, over time it can affect the eyes causing permanent blindness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that about 90% of vision loss from diabetes can be prevented. Early detection is key.

What is diabetic eye disease?

Several eye problems can result from diabetes:

Diabetic retinopathy: when blood vessels in the retina swell, leak, or close off completely

Diabetic macular edema: when fluid builds up on the retina and causes blurry vision

Cataracts: excess blood sugar from diabetes can cause cataracts

Glaucoma: having diabetes doubles your chance of getting glaucoma

What are the symptoms of diabetic eye disease?

Often there are no early symptoms of diabetic eye disease. You will likely have no pain and no change in your vision as damage starts to grow inside your eyes. An eye exam is the only way to detect diabetic eye disease.

I am a diabetic. What can I do to protect my eyes?

To prevent diabetic eye disease, control your diabetes ABC’s (A1C, Blood pressure, Cholesterol). If you are a smoker, quit smoking. Having a dilated eye exam at least once a year is crucial. The sooner you work to manage your diabetes, the better.