Diabetes that is not well managed can lead to diabetic retinopathy and other eye-related problems. An annual eye exam can help detect diabetic eye diseases so they can be treated early.
A description of diabetes
Diabetes causes people to have too much sugar in their blood. This happens when people aren’t producing insulin in their bodies (Type 1) or when the body resists insulin (Type 2). Insulin is a hormone that helps reduce sugar (also called glucose) in the blood stream. Too much glucose can lead to serious health issues, affecting the heart, kidneys and eyes.
Diabetic eye diseases
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious concern for people with diabetes and the number-one cause of vision loss. If a person’s blood sugar level is not in control and remains high regularly, blood vessels in the eye can be damaged and hurt vision. This can possibly result in blindness.
Another concern is diabetic macular edema, which can occur when high blood sugar causes fluid to leak into the retina.
Get annual eye exams
Doctors recommend that adults with diabetes get an annual dilated eye exam to check for micro-vascular issues that affect people with diabetes. The eye doctor checks the retina (back of the eye) for signs of retinopathy, as well as the macula (center of the retina) for diabetic macular edema.
At an annual eye exam, the eye doctor will:
- Dilate your eyes to look at the retinas
- See if you need corrective lenses
- Check your eye pressure for signs of glaucoma
- Identify other concerns unrelated to diabetes, such as cataracts and dry eye
Manage your diabetes
To stay healthy, it is important to:
- Test your blood sugar regularly
- Take the medicines prescribed by your doctor to help manage your blood sugar
- Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
- Visit your doctor regularly
- Have an annual eye exam
- Avoid tobacco
Blue Cross programs for people with diabetes
Blue Cross offers case management and educational mailings to help manage diabetes. This care management program is free for eligible members, voluntary and confidential. To learn more, call the customer service number on your member ID card.
More healthy resources
Learn more about diabetes
Diabetes risk test
Preventive care as you age
Physical exams and preventive visits
5 ways to protect your eyes
5 most common eye diseases