Diabetic Eye Exams in Jefferson City, MO

Diabetes is a serious condition that affects many areas of the body. High blood sugar or glucose levels can lead to damage to the small blood vessels within the eye, which can cause damage to the overall structure and function of the eye. If you are managing your diabetes and your eyesight isn’t bothering you, it is still important to make regular appointments as many eye problems can develop without causing discomfort or affecting your vision on a daily basis.

Proactive Diabetic Care

Diabetic eye exams are extremely important, as diabetes greatly increases your risk for cataracts and diabetic macular edema. Regardless of type, diabetes may also lead to the development of diabetic retinopathy, a serious condition in which the blood vessels in the retina become damaged. Treatment for diabetic eye conditions is possible but is most effective when conditions are caught early on.

Diabetic retinopathy develops when damage occurs in the blood vessels in your retina, a light-sensitive portion of the back of your eye. Often, diabetic retinopathy affects both eyes by causing blurry vision, eventually leading to a total loss of sight.

Staying proactive when managing your diabetes is essential since the longer you live with diabetes, the risk of developing eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy increases. Symptoms, especially in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, may be mild or unnoticeable.

Am I at Risk for Diabetic Eye Conditions?

To diagnose diabetic retinopathy or other eye conditions caused by diabetes, our doctors will perform a dilated eye exam. By dilating your pupils, our doctors will be able to evaluate the blood vessels, retina tissue, and optic nerve for changes or damage. If you do show signs of a diabetic eye condition, our doctors will help guide you through the best treatment options to slow or stop further progression.

Prepare for Your Diabetic Eye Exam

When you arrive for your eye exam, it is important to have the following information in addition to your patient paperwork and insurance.

Diabetic Eye Exams in Jefferson City, MO

Proactive Diabetic Care

Am I at Risk for Diabetic Eye Conditions?

Prepare for Your Diabetic Eye Exam

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