Living with diabetes means paying careful attention to your health, including your eyes. As your local ophthalmologists in Rapid City, SD, we want to help you understand the importance of regular diabetic eye exams.
Our eye doctor can evaluate your vision and check for signs of diabetic retinopathy. This complication of diabetes damages the blood vessels in your retina. Here is what to know about protecting your sight if you have diabetes.
Scheduling Your Diabetic Eye Exams
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that people with Type 1 diabetes get an initial exam shortly after diagnosis. For those with Type 2 diabetes, your first eye exam should occur immediately after diagnosis.
After your first exam, you will need follow-up visits at least every year from our ophthalmologist near you at Slingsby & Huot Eye Associates. We have clinics located in Rapid City, Pierre, Belle Fourche and Spearfish, SD, as well as Chadron, NE, for your convenience. More frequent exams may be needed if you have signs of diabetic retinopathy.
What Happens During the Exam?
A diabetic eye exam is quick, painless, and very important. We will start by checking your vision with and without glasses or contacts. The ophthalmologist will put dilating drops in your eyes to widen the pupils and get a better view inside your eyes.
We will examine the retina and optic nerve using specialized instruments to spot any warning signs indicating diabetic retinopathy is developing or worsening. The entire exam takes about 30-60 minutes.
Catching Problems Early
Diabetic retinopathy often starts developing without noticeable vision changes. That is why a comprehensive exam by our ophthalmologist near you is so essential. We can detect subtle changes in your retina before you experience vision loss or other symptoms.
The earlier we catch diabetic eye problems, the better the outcome with proper treatment. Closely monitoring your condition allows us to intervene at the most optimal time.
Reducing Your Risk
While you cannot necessarily prevent diabetic retinopathy, controlling your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol can significantly lower your risk. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are also important.
Of course, keeping all your appointments with your eye doctor plays the biggest role in protecting your sight. We are here to support you through every step of managing your diabetes and eye health.
Schedule an Eye Exam Near You at Slingsby & Huot Eye Associates
Do not put off your important eye exams! Call us at Slingsby & Huot Eye Associates to schedule your diabetic eye screening at one of our outreach clinics near you in Rapid City, Pierre, Belle Fourche, Spearfish, SD, or Chadron, NE. Partner with us to protect your vision and get the support you deserve.