At Erker’s Fine Eyewear in Ladue, MO, we provide diabetic eye exams to help patients protect their vision and identify diabetes-related changes as early as possible. Regular eye care is an important part of managing your overall health when you have diabetes. Below are frequently asked questions on diabetic eye exams.
What is a diabetic eye exam?
A diabetic eye exam is a comprehensive evaluation focused on detecting changes in the eyes that may be related to diabetes. At Erker’s Fine Eyewear, we carefully examine your eye health and look for signs of diabetic retinopathy and other conditions that may affect your vision.
Why are diabetic eye exams important?
Diabetic eye exams are important because diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina before noticeable vision changes occur. Regular exams allow our eye doctors in Ladue, MO identify concerns early and determine when additional monitoring or treatment may be necessary.
How often should I have a diabetic eye exam in Ladue, MO?
Many patients with diabetes should receive a comprehensive diabetic eye exam regularly, often once a year. At our Ladue, MO location, we determine the appropriate exam schedule based on your type of diabetes, eye health, previous findings, and individual risk factors.
What happens during a diabetic eye exam in Ladue, MO?
During a diabetic eye exam in Ladue, MO, we evaluate your vision and thoroughly examine the health of your eyes, including the retina. The goal is to identify signs of diabetic eye disease and other changes that could affect your eyesight.
Will my eyes be dilated during a diabetic eye exam?
Dilation may be recommended during a diabetic eye exam because it provides a clearer view of the retina and other structures inside the eye. We will explain what your exam involves and make sure you understand each part of the process.
Can diabetes affect my vision even if I feel fine?
Yes. Patients can develop diabetes-related changes in the eyes without experiencing obvious symptoms at first. This is why diabetic eye exams remain important even when your vision appears clear and you have not noticed any problems.
What is diabetic retinopathy and how is it detected?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages blood vessels in the retina. During diabetic eye exams in Ladue, MO, we examine the retina for changes that may indicate diabetic retinopathy so concerns can be addressed as early as possible.
Can diabetic retinopathy develop without symptoms?
Yes. Diabetic retinopathy can develop without noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages. Patients should not wait for blurred vision or other changes before scheduling a diabetic eye exam because early detection is essential for protecting long-term vision.
Can a diabetic eye exam find other eye conditions?
Yes. A comprehensive diabetic eye exam can reveal signs of other eye conditions in addition to diabetes-related changes, including glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, retinal problems, and other vision-threatening conditions. We assess your overall eye health so we can identify concerns that may require monitoring, management, or further evaluation.
When should someone with type 2 diabetes schedule an eye exam?
Patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes should make comprehensive eye care a priority. If you have recently been diagnosed, scheduling a diabetic eye exam allows us to establish a baseline for your eye health and check for existing retinal changes.
Do I still need a diabetic eye exam if my vision is clear?
Yes. Clear vision does not always mean that the eyes are free from diabetes-related changes. At Erker’s Fine Eyewear in Ladue, MO, diabetic eye exams help us evaluate the health of your retina even when you are seeing well and have no noticeable symptoms.
How should I prepare for a diabetic eye exam in Ladue, MO?
Before your diabetic eye exam in Ladue, MO, be prepared to discuss your diabetes history, medications, recent changes in your health, and any vision symptoms you have experienced. Providing accurate information helps us better understand your individual eye health needs.
How long does a diabetic eye exam take?
The length of a diabetic eye exam can vary depending on the testing needed and whether your eyes are dilated. We take the time required to evaluate your vision and eye health thoroughly rather than rushing through an important examination.
Can changes in blood sugar cause blurry vision?
Yes. Changes in blood sugar can temporarily affect the way your eyes focus and may cause blurry or fluctuating vision. If you are experiencing vision changes, a diabetic eye exam can help us determine whether diabetes or another eye health concern may be contributing.
Why choose Erker’s Fine Eyewear for diabetic eye exams in Ladue, MO?
At Erker’s Fine Eyewear, we provide thorough, attentive diabetic eye exams for patients in Ladue, MO with a strong focus on early detection and long-term eye health. We take the time to evaluate your vision, explain our findings, and provide clear recommendations based on your individual needs.
If you have diabetes, consistent eye care is an important part of protecting your vision. Contact Erker’s Fine Eyewear in Ladue, MO at (314) 997-0002 to schedule your diabetic eye exam and stay proactive about your eye health.