Diabetic Eye Care near Kansas City, KS

Diabetes impacts more than your general health; it can also affect your eyesight and eye health. When you have diabetes, routine eye exams are more important than ever. Diabetic patients are more at risk for glaucoma, cataracts, macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy. These conditions can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, our Overland Park and Shawnee Mission, KS, and Belton, MO eye specialists understand the impact diabetes can have on your health and are here to help. It's essential to work with an eye care center that understands the unique needs diabetic patients. To learn more about diabetic eye care at Heart of America Eye Care, contact your nearest location to request an appointment.

Diabetic eye care is essential for individuals with diabetes, as it helps to protect and preserve vision by addressing specific eye health risks associated with the condition. Regular eye exams and specialized care can offer numerous benefits for diabetic patients, including:

• Early detection of eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts, which can lead to vision loss if untreated.
• Tailored treatment plans to manage and slow the progression of diabetic eye conditions, helping to maintain long-term eye health.
• Monitoring and maintaining optimal eye health to prevent complications that could lead to more severe vision problems.

By prioritizing diabetic eye care, patients can proactively manage their eye health and reduce the risk of vision impairment associated with diabetes.

At Heart of America Eye Care, our eye doctors work closely with diabetic patients to complete detailed eye exams each year. This exam often includes a variety of diagnostic tests to check your eye health and reduce your chances of experiencing vision loss. We will also likely dilate your eyes to review the internal structures of your eye — such as the retina — since these areas can be significantly affected by diabetes. We may also perform tonometry, which tests the intraocular pressure of your eyes for signs of glaucoma. Lastly, we will perform a visual acuity test, which tests and tracks for any changes in your vision. Depending on your condition and results, you may need medications, eye injections, or another treatment to help maintain your eye health.

How often should I have my eyes examined if I have diabetes?
It is recommended that individuals with diabetes have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting diabetic eye conditions early, which can help prevent vision loss and manage any complications effectively. Your eye care specialist at Heart of America Eye Care will work with you to determine the best frequency for your exams based on your individual health needs.

Can diabetes affect my vision even if my blood sugar levels are well-controlled?
Yes, diabetes can still affect your vision even if your blood sugar levels are well-controlled. While maintaining stable blood sugar levels can reduce the risk of developing diabetic eye conditions, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. Regular eye exams are essential to monitor for any changes or early signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or other eye conditions related to diabetes.

What symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a diabetic eye problem?
Symptoms that may indicate a diabetic eye problem include blurred vision, floaters (dark spots or strings in your vision), difficulty seeing at night, and sudden loss of vision. It's important to report any changes in your vision to your eye care specialist immediately.

When you have diabetes, yearly checkups are essential. Just as you schedule routine appointments with your primary care physician to monitor your diabetes, you also need to maintain routine appointments with your eye care specialist. These regular visits can help us detect changes in your vision and eye health and significantly reduce your chances of vision loss. It's important to remember that most diabetic eye conditions, such as glaucoma, do not have warning signs, making these routine appointments vital in catching issues early on. To request an appointment or learn more about caring for your eye health when you have diabetes, contact Heart of America, P.A., at any of our locations in Overland Park, KS or Shawnee Mission, KS, or Belton, MO.