Patients with Diabetes Need Unique Eye Care
Diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness in North America. This health condition increases a person’s risk of developing certain eye conditions and diseases. Eye exams can help identify diabetes early, allowing people to get treatment in a timely manner.
It’s important to schedule and attend regular eye exams to help protect your health and preserve your vision. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
What’s Different About a Diabetic Eye Exam?
Diabetes poses a threat to the delicate internal structures of your eyes. Unlike a regular eye exam, diabetic eye exams are specially designed to help manage and address issues in your visual system caused by diabetes.
During a diabetic eye exam, we use advanced imaging techniques to evaluate the health of your eyes from the inside out, such as:
Diabetes Can Put Your Vision at Risk
Patients with diabetes are at a much higher risk of developing certain eye diseases and conditions.
Diabetic eye disease has 2 major categories: diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema. With early diagnosis and treatment, these diseases can be managed. However, without the appropriate medical care, diabetic eye disease can result in blindness.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can develop as a result of uncontrolled blood sugar. It damages blood vessels in the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (your retina). Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.
Anyone with type 1 or 2 diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy. The signs and symptoms of diabetic retinopathy can include:
- Floaters
- Blurred vision
- Fluctuating vision
- Dark/empty areas in your vision
- Vision loss
Diabetic Macular Edema
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the accumulation of excess fluid within the macula and can develop at any stage of diabetic retinopathy. DME is the most common cause of vision loss in people with diabetic retinopathy and is usually caused by poor blood sugar control.
Other Eye Health Issues Associated With Diabetes
Diabetes may also increase your chances of developing:
Next Steps
People with diabetes should get an eye exam at least once a year. Your optometrist may recommend more frequent exams depending on your needs.
Book your next eye exam with us today to continue protecting your eyes and vision.
Our Location
Visit Us
We’re located right on 15th St. E. with plenty of parking right outside the building for your convenience every time you visit us.
- Phone: 306.763.3937
- Fax: 306.763.2023
- 298 15th St. E.
- Prince Albert, SK S6V 1G2
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Getting Access to Quality Eye Care
Your vision is a gift, and you need to take care of it. Here at Northern Lights Eyecare, we believe access to eye care is essential to your quality of life. To make our care more accessible, we’re proud to work with insurance providers to provide direct billing. That way, you and your family can spend more time experiencing life and less time worrying about payments.
Our Brands
Comfort and quality meet when considering our frames and lens brands. From stylish looks to frames built for utility, your lifestyle plays a significant role in deciding which eyeglasses are right for you. Our team is trained to help you find the exact right frames to suit your distinct personality and daily needs while remaining comfortable and long-lasting.
