Diabetic Eye Exams in Cloverdale, BC

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by the weakening or swelling of the delicate blood vessels of the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye and is responsible for receiving and transmitting visual signals to your brain.

When the blood vessels become ineffective, new, abnormal blood vessels grow, but these break easily, leaking fluid and blood into the retina. As a result, the retinal tissue becomes deprived of blood and oxygen, leading to parts of it dying.

If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to blindness.

Vision loss related to diabetic retinopathy is not recoverable, so early detection is crucial to preventing blindness. Additionally, the earlier diabetic retinopathy is treated, the higher the chance treatment will be successful.

Diabetic retinopathy is monitored through routine eye exams in its early stages. If it advances, there are ways to manage it, like anti-VEGF therapy or laser therapy.

Your best strategy for preventing diabetic retinopathy is the proper maintenance and monitoring of your diabetes. Visit your physician for regular appointments and follow all instructions on diet and nutrition, and other recommendations for controlling diabetes.

It’s essential to undergo regular eye exams to monitor the health of your eyes. Please book your appointment today for a diabetic eye exam, so we can diagnose and manage conditions and diseases related to diabetes.