What to Expect During an Eye Exam
Your Saddle Club Diabetic Eye Exam will include the following steps:
- Medical History Review: Discussion about your diabetes management and overall health.
- Visual Acuity Test: Assessment of your current vision and prescription needs.
- Dilated Eye Exam: Drops will be used to enlarge your pupils, allowing the specialist to inspect the retina and optic nerve for signs of damage.
- Imaging Tests: Advanced imaging like OCT may be conducted to capture detailed images of your eye’s internal structure.
These steps ensure a comprehensive understanding of your eye health and enable early intervention when necessary.
How to Protect Your Vision
While Saddle Club Diabetic Eye Exams are crucial, incorporating a few habits into your daily routine can further protect your eyesight:
- Maintain Blood Sugar Levels: Consistently monitor and control your glucose levels to reduce the risk of eye complications.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: High levels can exacerbate eye problems.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can speed up diabetic eye damage.
- Follow a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
FAQs: Saddle Club Diabetic Eye Exams
What is the best time to schedule an eye exam for diabetes?
It’s recommended to have your eyes examined annually. However, if you’re pregnant or experiencing new vision issues, more frequent visits may be necessary.
How long does a diabetic eye exam take?
The typical duration is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the tests required.
Will my vision be affected after the exam?
Dilated eye exams may cause temporary blurred vision or sensitivity to light for a few hours. Wearing sunglasses and avoiding driving immediately after is advisable.
Are these exams covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover diabetic eye exams. Check with your provider to confirm coverage details.