Living with diabetes means looking after more than blood sugar. Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the eyes, often without early symptoms, so a regular routine matters. If you live in Edmonton or Mill Woods, this simple yearly checklist can help you stay on track with your eye health and know when to book a visit.
Book a Dilated Eye Exam Every Year
A yearly dilated eye exam allows your optometrist to look closely at the retina at the back of the eye. Drops widen the pupil so small changes, such as leaking blood vessels or swelling, can be seen earlier. Because some diabetic eye changes develop quietly, waiting for symptoms can mean waiting too long. Bring a list of your medications, your recent blood sugar readings if you have them, and any questions about vision changes. Plan for blurry vision for a few hours after dilation, and arrange a ride if you need one.
Know the Warning Signs to Watch For
Between exams, watch for changes and call promptly if you notice them. Warning signs include blurry or wavy vision, new floaters, dark spots or blank areas in your vision, trouble seeing at night, colours that look faded, or vision that changes from day to day. These changes do not always mean a serious problem, but they should be checked. Sudden vision loss, a shower of floaters, or flashes of light need same-day attention.
Keep Track of Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Eye health is connected to your overall diabetes care. Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in the ranges your doctor recommends can help reduce strain on the blood vessels in your eyes. Keep a simple record of your readings, attend your regular medical appointments, and tell your optometrist about changes to your medications or your diabetes plan. Sharing information between your care providers helps everyone see the full picture.
Everyday Habits That Support Eye Health
Small daily habits add up over a year. Do not smoke, take medications as directed, stay active in ways that fit your routine, and eat regular, balanced meals. Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against ultraviolet light, including on bright winter days in Alberta. If you wear contact lenses, follow cleaning and replacement instructions carefully, and remove them and call the clinic if your eyes become red or painful.
Your Checklist for the Year Ahead
Use this list as a yearly reminder: book a dilated eye exam, update your glasses prescription if needed, review your blood sugar and blood pressure records with your doctor, note any vision changes and when they started, check that your sunglasses still fit and are in good condition, and book follow-up visits as advised. Keeping the list on your fridge or in your phone can make it easier to follow through.
Book Your Eye Exam in Mill Woods
Infinite Eyecare is located 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 are living with diabetes and are due for your yearly eye exam, call us at 780-425-0003 to book an appointment.
