Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition linked to diabetes. High blood sugar over time can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. When those vessels weaken, leak, or close off, vision can be affected.
At Infinite Eyecare in Mill Woods, we see many patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Knowing how this condition develops can help you understand why routine eye exams matter, even when your vision seems fine.
What Is Happening in the Eye?
In the early stage, the walls of the retinal vessels can bulge, leak fluid, or bleed in small amounts. Some vessels may close, reducing blood flow. Fluid can also collect in the macula, the central part of the retina used for reading and faces. This swelling, called diabetic macular edema, can make central vision blurry.
In the advanced stage, the retina grows new blood vessels. These vessels are weak and can bleed, cloud vision, or form scar tissue that pulls on the retina.
Why There Are Often No Early Symptoms
Early diabetic retinopathy often causes no pain and no change in vision you would notice. You can read and work as usual while small changes are already present at the back of the eye. That is why it can be missed until it is further along.
During a diabetic eye exam, drops may be used to dilate the pupils so the optometrist can see more of the retina. Photos or scans may also be taken to record what is seen and compare it at future visits.
Signs That Can Appear Later
Later symptoms can include blurry or wavy vision, dark or empty spots, trouble seeing at night, faded colours, or more floaters.
Sudden vision loss, a shower of new floaters, flashes of light, or a dark area covering part of your vision should be checked promptly. These symptoms have other possible causes too, but they should not wait until a routine visit.
Who Should Be Checked, and How Often
People living with diabetes should have regular eye exams, even without glasses or symptoms. Timing depends on the type of diabetes, how long you have had it, blood sugar and blood pressure control, and whether retinal changes have been found. Many people are advised to have a dilated exam every year, sometimes more often if changes are present.
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol in the ranges your care team recommends supports eye health over time. It does not replace eye exams, but it is part of the same plan.
What Treatment Can Involve
If early changes are found and vision is good, the plan may be closer monitoring. If swelling or advanced changes are found, your optometrist may refer you to a specialist. A specialist may discuss laser treatment, injections, or in some cases surgery. Finding changes earlier gives you and your care team more options to discuss.
Book a Diabetic Eye Exam in Mill Woods
Infinite Eyecare is at 4275 23 Ave NW, Mill Woods, Edmonton. We offer direct billing to most major insurers. Eye exams for children under 19 and seniors are covered by Alberta Health Care.
If you live with diabetes and it has been a while since your last eye exam, or you have noticed a change in your vision, call Infinite Eyecare at 780-425-0003 to book an appointment.
