Protect Your Vision From Diabetic Eye Disease

Comprehensive diabetic eye exams and advanced retinal imaging help detect and monitor changes that can affect your vision.

Diabetic Eye Care

Protect Your Vision With Regular Diabetic Eye Exams

Diabetes can affect your eyes before you notice changes in your vision. Regular diabetic eye exams allow Dr. Garn to monitor your retinal health, identify changes early, and help protect your vision over time.

Retinopathy stages and symptoms illustrated.

Why Diabetic Eye Exams Matter

Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels of the retina and may lead to diabetic retinopathy. Because early changes can occur without noticeable symptoms, regular eye examinations are an important part of managing your overall health and protecting your vision.

What We Look for During a Diabetic Eye Exam.

During your diabetic eye exam, Dr. Garn evaluates your eyes for changes that may be associated with diabetes, including:

  • Changes to retinal blood vessels
  • Bleeding or fluid within the retina
  • Swelling involving the macula
  • Changes in vision
  • Other signs of diabetic eye disease When changes are detected, we can monitor them closely and coordinate additional care or referral when necessary.

Symptoms and Risk

Factors to Watch For

Some patients may experience vision changes as diabetic retinopathy progresses. Possible symptoms include:

  • Blurry or fluctuating vision
  • Dark spots, floaters, or streaks in your vision
  • Difficulty seeing at night
  • Empty or shadowy areas in your vision
  • Trouble reading or driving
  • Sudden changes in vision

Several factors may increase the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, including:

  • Poor blood sugar control
  • Long-term diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Pregnancy-related diabetes
  • Family history and genetic factors

If you have diabetes, maintaining routine eye exams is an important part of your overall health care plan.

Your Diabetic Retinopathy Questions Answered

Take Action to

Protect Your Vision

Diabetes can affect your eyes before noticeable symptoms appear. Regular eye exams at Ironwood Vision Center can help identify retinal changes early and provide guidance for protecting your vision.

If you have diabetes or are experiencing changes in your eyesight, schedule an evaluation with our team today.