If you have diabetes, your eyes deserve a spot on your yearly health checklist, right next to your A1C and your foot check.
Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye (the retina). This is called diabetic retinopathy, and it's one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults. The hard part: in the early stages, you usually can't feel or see any change. Your vision can seem perfectly fine while damage is already starting.
What happens at a diabetic eye exam
A diabetic eye exam is a dilated exam. We use drops to widen your pupils so Dr. Merchant can get a clear look at your retina, blood vessels and optic nerve. She checks for:
Signs of diabetic retinopathy
Swelling in the center of the retina (macular edema)
Early cataracts and glaucoma, which are more common with diabetes
The exam is comfortable and takes about an hour, including time for the drops to work. Your eyes will be light-sensitive for a few hours afterward, so bring sunglasses and, if you can, someone to drive you.
How often should you go?
Most people with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam at least once a year, or more often if changes are found. Catching problems early gives you the most treatment options and the best chance of protecting your vision.
Is it covered?
Diabetic eye exams are often billed to your medical insurance, not your vision plan. We accept most vision and medical insurance, including Medicare and Virginia Medicaid. Bring your insurance card, and we'll check your benefits before your visit.
We'll keep your doctor in the loop
With your permission, we can send your exam results to your primary care doctor or endocrinologist, so your whole care team stays on the same page.
Book your diabetic eye exam
The Vision Suite has two offices, both next to Target Optical:
Richmond: 5401 W Broad St
Mechanicsville: 7235 Bell Creek Rd
Book online or call (804) 288-1012. New patients are always welcome.
— Dr. Nitasha Merchant, OD