Diabetic Eye Exams
Protecting Vision Through Regular Monitoring
Diabetes can have a significant impact on eye health — often without early symptoms. Over time, high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This can cause vision loss if left undetected and untreated.
Regular diabetic eye exams are the key to identifying changes early and preserving long-term vision.
What Are Diabetic Eye Exams?
A diabetic eye exam is a comprehensive evaluation focused on identifying signs of damage caused by diabetes, including:
Diabetic Retinopathy: Leaking or abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina
Macular Edema: Swelling in the central retina that affects sharp vision
Changes to the Lens or Optic Nerve that may indicate disease progression
These exams typically involve pupil dilation and retinal imaging to carefully examine the back of the eye.
Who Needs One?
All individuals with diabetes — Type 1 or Type 2 — should receive annual eye exams. More frequent monitoring may be needed based on exam findings or if diabetic changes are already present.
Even if your vision feels normal, diabetic retinopathy can develop silently.
What to Expect
The exam includes:
A full review of your eye and health history
Dilated retinal examination
High-resolution retinal imaging, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Communication with your primary care physician or endocrinologist if needed
The entire visit typically takes 30–45 minutes and is painless.
Why Choose Dr. Pham
Detailed, diabetic-focused retinal evaluations
Use of advanced imaging to detect early signs of disease
Personalized monitoring plans based on disease severity
Surgeon-led care with continuity throughout your follow-up
What’s Next
If you have diabetes and haven’t had a recent eye exam, scheduling a visit is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your sight. Regular monitoring can make the difference between early treatment and avoidable vision loss.