Diabetic Eye Exams in Baton Rouge, LA

At Baton Rouge Eye Physicians, we offer diabetic eye exams for individuals who have or are at higher risk of type 1 or 2 diabetes. There are a number of eye conditions that can arise as a result of poorly managed blood sugar or diabetes. These complications include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic macular edema (DME), and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Over time, these disorders can cause damage to the eyes, leading to reduced vision and even blindness. With most eye conditions, early detection is vital for proper medical care. This is why undergoing regular comprehensive eye exams are so important. If you have diabetes and it has been a while since your last exam, contact our eye clinic in Baton Rouge, LA to schedule an appointment.

If you have diabetes, it is imperative to have your eyes examined regularly so that skilled ophthalmologists can determine if your eyesight may be affected by complications from type 1 or 2 diabetes. There are several benefits to getting regular diabetic eye exams at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians, including:

• Early detection of diabetic retinopathy
• The ability to diagnose other eye issues associated with diabetes
• Keeping any existing conditions from getting worse
• Specialized eye screenings for diabetic patients
• More comprehensive treatment options at regular intervals

Following your diabetic eye exam at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians, you will be able to return to relatively normal activities and lifestyles the next day. Your sight may be impaired or blurry immediately following your exam, so you will need to be driven home from your appointment in Baton Rouge, LA by someone other than yourself. If you scheduled a diabetic eye exam as a way of determining if you have diabetes, your provider will inform you in the same appointment as to the condition of your blood vessels. It is important to maintain a regular, annual eye appointment, especially if you have diabetes, so as to preserve the health of your eyes. Any other questions or concerns you may have can be asked at your appointment or to our reception staff via phone.

Our skilled team of ophthalmologists will perform a series of tests to assess your eyes for complications that can arise with type 1 or 2 diabetes. This is what you can expect during your exam:

Cataracts
To diagnose cataracts, we will dilate your pupil to examine the lens of your eye, then use a slit lamp and ophthalmoscope to evaluate the ocular structures further.

Glaucoma
To identify glaucoma, the tonometry (air-puff) test is performed to evaluate the pressure inside your eye, along with the pachymetry test, which measures the thickness of your cornea.

Macular Edema and Diabetic Retinopathy
To check for macular edema and diabetic retinopathy, we will dilate your pupils with specialized eye drops. This allows us to search for any irregularities in the retina and blood vessels. We may also perform a fluorescein angiography. During this test, we'll infuse a dye into your arm to help us get a distinct view of how the vessels are working in your eye.

Often, the detection of retinal damage is a person's initial warning sign that they have diabetes. In other cases, it can be a signal that they aren't controlling their diabetes as closely as they should be. Therefore, it's essential to regularly receive an evaluation for diabetic retinopathy, regardless of whether you've been diagnosed with diabetes.

How often should I receive a diabetic eye exam?
It is recommended to receive regular eye exams if you have been diagnosed with diabetes. At Baton Rouge Eye Physicians, our team of skilled eye care professionals will let you know how often you should receive an eye exam. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your eye health, you should schedule an exam as soon as possible.

How do I know if diabetes is affecting my eye health?
In addition to blurry vision, diabetes can lead to floaters or spots within your vision. Individuals with diabetes can also be more prone to developing cataracts at a younger age. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and experience any issues with your vision, you are a good candidate for a diabetic eye exam.

Can lowering blood sugar improve my vision problems?
Along with other treatment options, controlling your diabetes with proper blood sugar stabilization can help to reduce vision issues. Though high blood sugar can cause changes in vision, low blood sugar is less likely to cause issues. Therefore, keeping a stable blood sugar can help to diminish future vision problems.

Baton Rouge Eye Physicians is proud to offer high-quality eye care to our Baton Rouge patients. If you or your loved one have diabetes and are noticing changes in your vision, contact our practice today to book a comprehensive eye exam. Our team can perform a number of diagnostic tests to screen for ocular conditions that can develop over time due to diabetes.