Diabetes can cause serious eye complications—often before you notice any symptoms. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy can quietly damage the blood vessels in your eyes, increasing your risk of vision loss over time. That’s why regular, comprehensive eye exams are essential, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk. At My Optometrist Calgary, our team is trained to detect early signs of diabetic eye disease and help you protect your long-term vision. Whether you’ve been diagnosed or just want to stay ahead of your health, booking an exam is one of the smartest steps you can take. Contact us at one of our locations in Calgary or Three Hills to keep your eyes clear, healthy, and protected.
Diabetes Can Affect Your Eyes Before You Even Feel It
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults—and the most dangerous part? Eye damage often happens without any early symptoms. You might still see clearly, even while the small blood vessels in your eyes are slowly being damaged by elevated blood sugar levels.
Conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and even early cataracts can develop silently. By the time you notice changes in your vision, the damage may already be advanced.
That’s why optometrists play such a key role in diabetes care. A comprehensive eye exam doesn’t just check your prescription—it allows us to detect subtle signs of disease early, so you can take action before your vision is affected.
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in your retina, the part of your eye that detects light. In its early stages, it may cause no symptoms at all. As it progresses, it can lead to Diabetic eye disease which can result in:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dark or empty spots in your sight
- Poor night vision
- Vision loss
Regular eye exams are often the only way to catch it early and slow its progression. At My Optometrist Calgary, we use advanced diagnostic tools to detect even the smallest changes in retinal health.
Why Annual Eye Exams Matter—Even Without Symptoms
Even if your vision seems fine, annual eye exams are crucial if you:
- Have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
- Have prediabetes or are at high risk
- Have a family history of diabetes or diabetic eye disease
- Experience high blood pressure or cholesterol (which can worsen eye damage)
Comprehensive eye exams allow us to:
- Monitor blood vessel health in the retina
- Detect early-stage retinopathy or swelling
- Coordinate with your family doctor or endocrinologist
- Provide proactive vision care as part of your diabetes management
Your Vision Deserves Preventive Care
Like every other part of your diabetes routine, checking your blood sugar, eating well, taking medication—your eyes need ongoing attention too. Eye damage from diabetes is preventable, and in many cases, reversible if caught early. That’s the power of regular eye exams.
Book a Diabetic Eye Exam with My Optometrist Calgary
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. If you have diabetes or are at risk, a yearly eye exam is one of the most effective ways to protect your sight. At My Optometrist Calgary, we take diabetic eye health seriously, combining thorough exams with advanced diagnostic imaging and compassionate care. Whether you're in Calgary or Three Hills, we're here to help you stay one step ahead of diabetic eye disease. Contact us today to book your appointment and make your vision part of your health plan.
FAQs
Q: What is a diabetic eye exam?
A: It’s a comprehensive exam that checks for signs of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and other complications related to diabetes. Contact My Optometrist Calgary today to book an eye exam and we can help you with your complications.
Q: How often should I get a diabetic eye exam?
A: If you have diabetes, you should have a full eye exam at least once a year—even if your vision feels normal.
Q: What is diabetic retinopathy?
A: It’s damage to the retina caused by high blood sugar levels. It can lead to vision loss if untreated.