Diabetic Eye Exams

Diabetes is a disorder of sugar metabolism, in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (Type I) and/or the insulin is not working properly due to abnormal substances in the bloodstream (Type II). Both types carry a high risk of complications, including damage to the retina, glaucoma and early cataracts; diabetic retinopathy can lead to severe vision loss. The American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Academy of Internal Medicine, and the American Diabetic Association recommend that persons with Type I diabetes have annual dilated (using drops to open the pupils wide) eye exams by well-trained doctors, beginning five years after diagnosis; and that persons with Type II have an exam as soon as feasible after diagnosis, and then annually --- if no problems are found at each examination. If there are problems found, the frequency of exams increases.

The doctors at ESA are very experienced in the examination techniques used to detect diabetic eye disease in its early stages, so that it can be treated to minimize loss of vision.