The Importance of Annual Preventative Diabetic Eye Tests in Edmonton
As an optometrist at Helio Optometry in Edmonton, Alberta, I cannot stress enough the importance of annual preventative diabetic eye tests for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause serious complications, including significant damage to your eyes. Regular eye exams are crucial in detecting early signs of diabetic eye disease, allowing for timely intervention and management.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin (Type 1) or becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2). Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
According to Diabetes Canada, nearly 3.8 million Canadians have diabetes, with Type 2 being the most prevalent. Additionally, approximately 6.1 million Canadians are living with prediabetes, putting them at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future (Statistics Canada)
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetic eye disease can often progress without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Here are some common signs and symptoms to watch for:
Blurry vision
Floaters or spots in your vision
Dark or empty areas in your vision
Difficulty seeing at night
Fluctuating vision
Impaired colour vision
How Does Diabetes Affect Your Eyes
According to Diabetes Canada, approximately 30% of Canadians with diabetes will develop diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision impairment or blindness if not managed properly. Diabetes is a leading cause of preventable blindness in people aged 20 to 65 years. Diabetes can cause several eye-related complications, leading to various conditions that threaten vision.
#1: Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. There are two main stages:
Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): The early stage where blood vessels in the retina weaken and leak fluid or blood.
Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): The advanced stage where new, abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina, which can lead to severe vision loss.
Equipment Used to Diagnose Diabetic Retinopathy
At Helio Optometry, we use advanced diagnostic equipment to detect and monitor diabetic retinopathy:
Optomap: This ultra-widefield retinal imaging technology captures a comprehensive view of the retina, helping to identify any early signs of diabetic retinopathy.
Dilated Fundus Exams: By dilating the pupils, we can better view the retina and optic nerve, allowing for a thorough examination. An annual dilated fundus exam is considered the standard of care for everyone with diabetes.
OCT Imaging (Optical Coherence Tomography): This non-invasive imaging test uses light waves to take cross-sectional pictures of the retina, providing detailed images of its layers to detect any swelling or fluid.
#2: Diabetic Macular Edema
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a complication of diabetic retinopathy in which fluid accumulates in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. If not treated promptly, this condition can cause significant vision loss. As such, we will run an OCT scan of your macula on an annual basis to look for any early signs of fluid.
#3: Additional Eye Conditions Associated with Diabetes
In addition to both diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, people with diabetes are also at a higher risk of developing other eye conditions, such as:
Cataracts: Diabetes increases the likelihood of developing cataracts, a condition where the eye's lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision.
Glaucoma: Diabetic individuals are at a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to blindness.
Are Diabetic Eye Tests Covered by Alberta Health Care?
Yes, diabetic eye tests are covered by Alberta Health Care for individuals with diabetes. This coverage includes an in-depth eye health exam, including diagnostic imaging necessary for monitoring diabetic eye diseases, such as retinal examinations, dilated fundus exams, and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). This ensures that patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes receive essential eye care without additional financial burden, enabling early detection and management of conditions like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.
At the conclusion of this exam, our optometrists will send a letter back to your primary care physician or diabetic specialists outlining our findings.
It's important to note that Alberta Health Care does not cover prescriptions for eyeglasses and contact lenses for individuals aged 19-64. These items are considered separate and must be paid for out-of-pocket or through additional insurance plans.
Diabetic Eye Care in Edmonton
Annual preventative diabetic eye tests are essential for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Regular eye exams can detect early signs of diabetic eye disease, allowing for timely treatment and management to prevent vision loss. Helio Optometry utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, including Optomap, dilated fundus exams, and OCT imaging, to provide comprehensive patient care.
If you have diabetes, schedule your diabetic eye exam with us today to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your vision is clear. Your vision is our priority, and we are here to help you manage your eye health effectively.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in West Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.