Diabetic Related Eye Exams

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects many people in Beaumont, Texas, increasing the risk of various health complications, including serious eye diseases. If you have diabetes, your vision is particularly vulnerable to conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. At Texas State Optical, we offer comprehensive diabetic eye exams designed to monitor, detect, and manage diabetes-related eye conditions before they compromise your vision.
​​​​​​​

How Diabetes Affects Your Vision

Diabetes impacts your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to damage in the tiny blood vessels of the retina and other parts of the eye. One of the most common diabetic eye diseases, diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak, swell, or close off. In advanced cases, new abnormal blood vessels can grow, leading to further complications such as vision distortion, floaters, and even blindness.

Diabetic macular edema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy in which fluid accumulates in the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. This swelling blurs vision and, if left untreated, can cause significant vision loss.

People with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts at an earlier age. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, reducing clarity and making it difficult to see.

Diabetes doubles the risk of glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve. If untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent peripheral vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness.

The Importance of Regular Diabetic Eye Exams

Diabetes-related eye diseases often develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. By the time vision changes become apparent, significant damage may have already occurred. Annual diabetic eye exams are essential for early detection and intervention.

• Prevents severe vision loss – Identifying issues early allows for timely treatment before complications arise.

• Monitors changes over time – Regular exams help track disease progression and adjust treatment plans as needed.

• Protects your overall health – Eye exams can also reveal signs of other health issues related to diabetes, such as hypertension.
  
  

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that individuals with diabetes undergo a comprehensive diabetic eye exam at least once a year. More frequent exams may be needed if you have existing eye conditions or a history of retinopathy.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

A diabetic eye exam includes specialized tests designed to detect early signs of diabetes-related vision problems.

• Dilated Eye Exam – We use dilating drops to widen your pupils, allowing us to get a clear view of your retina and check for any signs of damage.

• Retinal Imaging & Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Advanced imaging techniques capture detailed pictures of your retina, helping us identify early changes in your eye’s blood vessels.

• Tonometry (Glaucoma Test) – Measures eye pressure to check for glaucoma, a condition that people with diabetes are at higher risk for.

• Visual Acuity & Refraction Testing – Evaluates overall vision quality and determines if any prescription changes are necessary.

Our optometrists will explain your results in detail, discuss any concerns, and provide recommendations for protecting your vision.

Protect Your Vision at Texas State Optical in Beaumont, TX

At Texas State Optical, we are dedicated to helping patients with diabetes protect their vision through advanced diagnostic technology and personalized care. Early detection is key, so if you experience blurry vision, floaters, or any changes in your eyesight, seek an exam immediately.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam with Texas State Optical in Beaumont, TX, and let us help you protect your sight for years to come