Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month and the Importance of Regular Eye Exams
- Lynn Valley Optometry
- 19 hours ago
- 3 min read
November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the serious eye complications that can affect people living with diabetes. Diabetic eye disease includes conditions like diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Here in North Vancouver, where active lifestyles and wellness are part of daily life, this month serves as an important reminder that vision health is an essential part of diabetes care. At Lynn Valley Optometry, we’re committed to helping our patients detect problems early and protect their sight for the long term.
What Is Diabetic Eye Disease?
Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye problems that people with diabetes may develop. The most common and serious condition is diabetic retinopathy, which happens when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Other related conditions include diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.
These diseases often develop without early symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial. If detected early, treatments can prevent or slow vision loss.
Why November Is Important for Awareness
Designating November as Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month helps focus attention on the risks and encourages people with diabetes to take action. Awareness campaigns provide education on how diabetes affects eye health and promote the need for timely eye care.
This month also highlights the importance of lifestyle choices and blood sugar control in preventing eye complications. It encourages patients to work closely with healthcare providers for comprehensive diabetes management.
The Role of Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are the most effective way to detect diabetic eye disease early. Diabetes Canada recommends that people with diabetes should get an eye exam once a year, unless otherwise directed by your ophthalmologist or optometrist.
At Lynn Valley Optometry, our doctors use advanced diagnostic imaging such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and retinal photography to detect the earliest signs of diabetic retinopathy—often before vision changes occur.
During these exams, eye care professionals look for signs of damage to the retina and other parts of the eye. Early detection allows for treatments such as laser therapy, injections, or surgery that can save vision.
What to Expect During an Eye Exam
Dilated eye exam: Eye drops enlarge the pupils to allow a detailed view of the retina.
Visual acuity test: Measures how well you see at different distances.
Tonometry: Checks eye pressure to screen for glaucoma.
Retinal imaging: Photos or scans of the retina to track changes over time.
These tests are painless and usually take less than an hour. Scheduling exams yearly or more often if recommended is key to protecting your vision.
Managing Diabetes to Protect Your Eyes
Controlling blood sugar levels is the foundation of preventing diabetic eye disease. Studies show that keeping blood glucose within target ranges reduces the risk of developing retinopathy and slows its progression.
Other important steps include:
Managing blood pressure and cholesterol: High levels increase the risk of eye damage.
Quitting smoking: Smoking worsens blood vessel damage.
Eating a balanced diet: Foods rich in antioxidants support eye health.
Staying physically active: Exercise helps regulate blood sugar and circulation.
By combining these habits with regular eye exams, people with diabetes can significantly reduce their chances of vision loss.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Diabetic eye disease often develops silently, but some symptoms may appear as the condition worsens:
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Dark spots or floaters in vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Loss of central vision
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an eye exam promptly. Early treatment can prevent permanent damage.
Taking Action This November and Beyond
November is a good time to schedule your eye exam if you have diabetes or prediabetes. Use this month to learn more about diabetic eye disease and share information with family and friends who may be at risk.
Remember, protecting your vision requires ongoing effort. Regular eye exams, good diabetes management, and healthy lifestyle choices work together to keep your eyes healthy.
If you have not had an eye exam in the past year, contact your eye care provider today. Early detection saves sight.
Explore Additional Resources
Open Your Eyes to an Eye Exam - Diabetes Canada
Diabetes and the Eyes Educational Toolkit - Prevent Blindness
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