According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in four people with diabetes over the age of 40 have some degree of diabetic retinopathy. Because diabetic eye disease often develops without warning signs, many patients don't realize changes are occurring. At DePoe Eye Center, our eye doctors take a proactive approach to diabetic eye care through advanced retinal imaging, ongoing monitoring, and personalized recommendations.
Diabetic Eye Care Across Metro Atlanta & Georgia
Care for Long-Term Vision
DIABETES & your EYE HEALTH
A Healthier Future Starts with Early Detection
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With convenient locations across Georgia, DePoe Eye Center makes it easy to access eye care and eyewear wherever life takes you.
Across every DePoe Eye Center location, our optometrists share a commitment to providing thoughtful, patient-centered care.
Find a DePoe Eye Center location near you and schedule your eye exam today!
How Does Diabetes Affect the Eyes?
Diabetes affects blood vessels throughout the body, including the delicate blood vessels that support the retina. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage these vessels, causing them to leak, swell, or become blocked.
Because these changes often happen gradually, many people don't notice symptoms right away. That's why routine diabetic eye evaluations are so important. Early detection allows our eye doctors to monitor changes, recommend treatment when needed, and help protect your vision before complications develop.
What Is Diabetic Eye Disease?
Diabetic eye disease is a group of vision-threatening conditions caused by diabetes. While diabetic retinopathy is the most common, diabetes can affect the eyes in several ways. Conditions associated with diabetes include:
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Diabetic Retinopathy
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Diabetic Macular Edema
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Cataracts
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Retinal Damage
Why Are Diabetic Eye Exams Important?
Many patients with diabetic eye disease experience no symptoms during the earliest stages of the condition. By the time vision changes become noticeable, permanent damage may have already occurred. Regular diabetic eye exams help:
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Detect retinal changes early
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Monitor disease progression
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Evaluate the health of retinal blood vessels
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Protect long-term vision
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Support overall diabetes management
For most patients with diabetes, annual diabetic eye evaluations are an important part of maintaining both eye health and overall wellness.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease
Although diabetic eye disease often develops without warning signs, some patients may experience symptoms as the condition progresses. Possible symptoms include:
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Blurry vision
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Floaters
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Dark spots in vision
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Fluctuating vision
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Difficulty seeing at night
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Areas of missing vision
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Sudden changes in eyesight
If you notice any changes in your vision, it's important to schedule an evaluation.
Retinal Imaging for Early Detection
At DePoe Eye Center, we utilize advanced Optos® Digital Retinal Imaging to help evaluate the health of your retina and monitor for signs of diabetic eye disease.
This technology allows our eye doctors to capture highly detailed images of the retina and examine areas that may be difficult to evaluate during a standard eye examination alone. The result is a more comprehensive understanding of your eye health and better long-term management of diabetes-related eye conditions.
Diabetic Eye Exams at DePoe Eye Center
A diabetic eye evaluation is designed to provide a thorough assessment of your vision and retinal health. During your appointment, we may:
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Review your medical history
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Evaluate your vision
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Assess retinal health
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Capture retinal images
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Look for signs of diabetic eye disease
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Discuss findings and recommendations
Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of your eye health and help you stay proactive in protecting your vision.
Managing Diabetic Eye Disease
Managing diabetic eye disease requires a partnership between you, your healthcare providers, and your eye doctor. Through regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle habits, and timely treatment, many patients can successfully preserve their vision.
Our optometrists develop personalized management plans based on your unique needs, health history, and exam findings. We also coordinate care when additional treatment or specialty services are required.
Helping You See Beyond the Diagnosis
Protect Your Vision for the Future
Diabetes doesn't have to define your eye health. With routine monitoring and early detection, many diabetes-related eye conditions can be managed before they affect your vision. Schedule a diabetic eye exam at DePoe Eye Center and take an active role in protecting your sight for years to come.
Patients across Metro Atlanta and Georgia trust DePoe Eye Center for comprehensive diabetic eye care, serving communities including Stockbridge, McDonough, Dallas, Fayetteville, Griffin, Senoia, Gainesville, Columbus, Macon, and nearby areas.