People with diabetes are susceptible to various health issues, including those that affect vision. Diabetics have a heightened risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. But despite this risk, a recent study has found that more than half of all diabetics don’t get their eyes checked regularly. In this blog post, the Fredericksburg and Culpeper eye doctors at Vista Eye Specialists discuss the findings of the study. They also explain what to expect from a dilated eye exam.
About the Study
Researchers at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to find out how many diabetics underwent regular eye exams. They reviewed medical information from nearly 2,000 diabetics over a four-year period. All participants were age 40 or older and had either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that six out of 10 diabetics skipped their recommended annual dilated eye exams.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) stresses the importance of annual eye exams. According to the AAO, undergoing a dilated eye exam yearly can prevent 95 percent of vision loss related to diabetes. This is because many eye diseases have no early symptoms. Dilated eye exams are the only way for eye doctors to detect changes in the eye before they show visible symptoms. Early detection and treatment is critical in managing eye diseases and prolonging vision.
Your Dilated Eye Exam with Vista Eye Specialists
If you have diabetes, you should have a dilated eye exam once a year, or as often as recommended by your eye doctor. Our team can determine how often you should get your eyes checked upon evaluating your current eye health and risk factors.
During your exam, our team will use dilating drops to enlarge the pupils of your eyes. This will allow us to evaluate your eyes’ internal structures using various instruments. If we detect an abnormality, we will conduct other tests to determine the root of the problem. Following your exam, your eyes will be sensitive to light for several hours. We recommend bringing a pair of sunglasses and enlisting someone to drive you home.
To schedule an eye exam, or to learn more about the eye conditions we treat, please contact Vista Eye Specialists by calling 540-208-5827 (1-888-393-5264) today.
