Eye tests for diabetes: why are they important and challenging?

Regular eye exams are essential for people with diabetes.

Retinopathy related to diabetes – what is it and why is it so important to diagnose it as soon as possible?

Diabetic retinopathy develops when the body has been dealing with high blood sugar levels for many years. The high levels of sugar cause damage to the blood vessels in the eyes so that more blood vessels are formed than those that were formed before, but these are formed in an unhealthy way. There are medications available that can improve symptoms.

Factors contributing to retinopathy in diabetic patients

Not only A1C is responsible for the development of diabetes, but also the duration and level of blood pressure – all of them play a significant role in the risk of developing diabetes. Other factors include the rapid fluctuations in glucose levels, family history of eye diseases, genetics of glaucoma and macular degeneration in the family, and more.

The risk found in retinopathy

Retinopathy is a disease that attacks the eyes and brings them to a state of blindness. The main problem is that those who have the problem cannot know that they suffer from it at all when they are in its first stages. This, despite the fact that early detection of retinopathy is essential to prevent blindness or acute visual impairment.

The only way to prevent retinopathy in the eyes and the progression of blindness is through eye exams. Only comprehensive examinations by an ophthalmologist can tell you if you suffer from retinopathy and therefore, if you suffer from diabetes or high blood sugar levels, the medical examination plays a vital role in maintaining your balance.

The number one advice from doctors

The number one advice from doctors is to get regular checkups at an ophthalmologist. This is because retinopathy patients cannot know that they suffer from the phenomenon until they are at high risk of losing their sight. Early detection of the retinopathy can ensure the prevention of vision deterioration. According to the recommendations of the American Diabetes Association, the frequency with which the tests should be reached is once every six months.

The great luck is that most of the population lives in countries that offer comprehensive eye examination services without the need for full payments thanks to insurances that allow comprehensive coverage and payments. In various countries there are even "reminders" that remind patients to come for the periodic examinations. In other countries there are programs that offer eye examinations according to a pre-built plan especially for diabetics.

When these programs are implemented properly, the results relating to the prevention of blindness and vision deterioration – all of these show significant improvements. The regular tests allow the population to locate problems or unwanted developments immediately and in a short time. In this way, more severe phenomena that cause irreversible problems are avoided.