Diabetic
Eye Exams in
Tinley Park

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What is Diabetic Eye Disease?  

At Walter Eye Clinic, we offer diabetic eye exams in Tinley Park to detect early signs of diabetic eye disease, even before symptoms occur. Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye diseases that affect people who have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Cataracts
  • Diabetic macular edema
  • Glaucoma

Diabetic eye disease can damage the eyes and result in poor vision or blindness, particularly if blood sugar levels are not controlled over time. High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye, which may leak fluid or cause swelling. There may not be any symptoms of diabetic eye disease in the early stages, and the risk for damage to the eyes and vision increases if blood sugar levels and/or blood pressure levels aren’t properly controlled.  

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive layer in the back of the eye). It is the most common cause of vision loss and blindness for diabetics.  

In the early stages of diabetic retinopathy, there usually aren’t any obvious symptoms. However, in the advanced stages, as the blood vessels start to bleed into the vitreous (a gel-like fluid that fills the eyes), dark, floating spots may appear. Streaks can also develop in your vision.

The longer a person has diabetes, the higher the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Women who have diabetes who then get pregnant, or who develop diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes), are also at a higher risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. If you are pregnant and have diabetes, you will need a diabetic eye exam.  

Can Diabetes Cause Cataracts?

Cataracts are common in people as they age, but they can develop at an earlier age in diabetics. Cataracts cause the front part of the eye to become cloudy. Symptoms include hazy or blurry vision, seeing faded colors, reduced night vision, increased sensitivity to light, and, over time, loss of vision.  

Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic macular edema occurs when there’s fluid build-up and swelling in the macula, which is the part of the retina used to see clearly while looking straight ahead at people’s faces, driving, and reading. Diabetic macular edema can lead to either partial vision loss or blindness.  

Schedule a Diabetic Eye Exam in Tinley Park

If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, then you need a comprehensive eye exam at least once each year. Your eye doctor may recommend coming in more often based on your specific needs and health history. Our experienced eye doctors at Walter Eye Clinic will perform special tests as part of your diabetic eye exam to screen for signs of diabetic eye disease.  

To schedule a diabetic eye exam in Tinley Park, contact us today.