Safeguard your vision with a comprehensive diabetic eye exam in Bend, OR at OnSight Eye Center. These exams detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy and other eye complications related to diabetes, which facilitates prompt actions to prevent vision loss. Trust our expert team to monitor and protect your eye health, ensuring clear vision and long-term well-being.
Identify Diabetic Eye Conditions & Prevent Vision Loss
Diabetic eye exams are specialized evaluations to monitor and protect the eye health of individuals with diabetes. These exams focus on detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma, and cataracts, which are common complications of diabetes. During the exam, our ophthalmologist thoroughly examines the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels using advanced imaging technology. Regular diabetic eye exams are crucial for early intervention, as many diabetic eye conditions can progress without noticeable symptoms, potentially leading to vision loss if left untreated.
Diabetic Eye Exams Can Detect:
- Early signs of diabetic retinopathy (damage to the blood vessels in the retina)
- Macular edema (swelling of the macula) caused by fluid buildup in the retina
- Cataracts leading to clouded vision
- Glaucoma resulting from increased eye pressure
- Damage to the retina’s blood vessels
- Changes in the optic nerve, indicating potential vision issues
- Any abnormal growth of new blood vessels in the retina
- Early-stage vision changes that may not yet be noticeable to the patient
What Happens if Diabetic Eye Conditions Are Left Untreated?
If diabetes-related eye conditions are left untreated, you risk progressive vision loss and potential blindness. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to severe retinal damage, while untreated macular edema may cause blurred vision.
Glaucoma and cataracts may continue progressing and further impair your sight, making everyday tasks like reading or driving increasingly difficult. Early detection through regular eye exams is essential to prevent these serious complications and preserve your vision for the long term.
How Are Diabetic Eye Exams Done in Bend, OR?
During a diabetic eye exam in Bend, your ophthalmologist will discuss your medical history and any vision changes you’ve noticed. The exam typically starts with a visual acuity test to measure your overall vision. Next, the ophthalmologist will use dilating eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing a clear view of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels at the back of your eye.
Once your eyes are dilated, the ophthalmologist will examine your retina using advanced imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fundus photography. These tools help detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and other potential issues. The entire process is painless, and your ophthalmologist will explain any findings and recommend follow-up care if necessary to protect your vision.
What Happens After Diabetic Eye Exams?
After your diabetic eye exam, your ophthalmologist will review the findings with you in detail. If any signs of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, or other conditions are detected, your doctor will discuss treatment options and the next steps to protect your vision. This might include more frequent monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, or specific treatments like laser therapy, medication, or surgery. Even if no issues are found, your ophthalmologist will recommend a schedule for regular exams to ensure ongoing eye health.
You Should Consider Diabetic Eye Exams If:
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes, regardless of type
- You experience blurred or fluctuating vision
- You notice dark spots or floaters in your vision
- You have difficulty seeing at night
- You are managing high blood pressure alongside diabetes
- You haven’t had a comprehensive eye exam in over a year
- You are pregnant and have diabetes, which increases the risk of eye complications
Why Choose Us For Your Diabetic Eye Exams in Bend, OR?
OnSight Eye Center is the premier choice for diabetic eye care in Central Oregon, offering advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care in a comfortable, spa-like setting. Led by Dr. Brian Desmond, a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 20 years of experience, our team is dedicated to protecting your vision. Schedule a consultation at our Bend office and take proactive steps toward preserving your vision with comprehensive eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy.