Diabetic eye exams are essential for managing diabetes and preventing serious eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated early. Regular eye exams help catch any issues before they progress, ensuring timely intervention and preserving your vision. At Fishman & Sheridan EyeCare Specialists, we provide comprehensive diabetic eye exams across our Leesburg, Clermont, and Eustis locations to protect your eye health and vision.

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What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

During a diabetic eye exam, our expert team will perform a series of tests to assess your eye health and screen for diabetic retinopathy. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Vision Test: Measures how well you can see at various distances.
  • Dilated Eye Exam: We use eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing us to get a better view of the retina and optic nerve. This helps in detecting any early signs of damage.
  • OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Provides detailed images of the retina, helping to evaluate any swelling or damage to the retinal layers.

Understanding Your Risk for Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy develops gradually and may not show symptoms in its early stages. However, certain factors increase your risk:

  • Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the higher your risk.
  • Blood Sugar Levels: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels increase the risk of developing retinopathy.
  • High Blood Pressure

Regular diabetic eye exams help us monitor your eye health and detect any changes early, even before you experience symptoms. Early detection is key to preventing severe vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment

If our exam reveals signs of diabetic retinopathy or other issues, we will discuss your treatment options. Depending on the severity, this may include:

  • Eye Drops and Medications: To manage inflammation and blood sugar levels.
  • Referral to a Retina Specialist: Advanced procedures like laser photocoagulation can seal leaking blood vessels and reduce swelling. In more severe cases, vitrectomy may be required to remove blood from the eye and repair damage. For these specific cases, we would refer you to a retina specialist for further advanced treatment.

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today!

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a diabetic eye exam with Fishman & Sheridan EyeCare Specialists to ensure your eyes are healthy and to catch any potential issues early. Our offices in Leesburg, Clermont, and Eustis are equipped with the latest technology to provide comprehensive care. Most vision insurance plans cover these essential exams, making it easy to stay on top of your eye health. Contact us at (352) 360-2301 or schedule an appointment online and take proactive steps to protect your vision.