Diabetic Eye Exams in Grand Haven, MI

For individuals with diabetes, a yearly comprehensive eye exam is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vision. At Grand Haven Eyecare, Dr. Cynthia Geneva, OD, provides specialized diabetic eye exams that go beyond a standard vision test. We work closely with your primary care physician to monitor your eye health and prevent vision loss from diabetes-related eye conditions, particularly diabetic retinopathy.

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The Connection Between Diabetes and Your Eyes

High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your eyes. This damage can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, where these blood vessels leak fluid or become blocked, causing swelling in the retina and starving the eye of oxygen. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to:

  • Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): Swelling of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
  • Neovascular Glaucoma: Abnormal new blood vessels can grow on the iris, blocking fluid drainage and causing a dangerous increase in eye pressure.
  • Retinal Detachment: New, abnormal blood vessels can cause scar tissue that pulls the retina away from the back of the eye.
  • Permanent Vision Loss or Blindness.

Because these conditions often have no early warning signs, a yearly dilated eye exam is the only way to catch them before significant, irreversible damage occurs.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

Dr. Geneva’s diabetic eye exam is a more in-depth assessment than a routine vision check. During your appointment, we will:

  • Dilate Your Pupils: This crucial step widens your pupils, allowing Dr. Geneva to get a clear, unobstructed view of your retina and the blood vessels at the back of your eye.
  • Conduct a Retinal Exam: We will carefully examine the blood vessels and optic nerve for any signs of leakage, swelling, or new blood vessel growth.
  • Check for Glaucoma: We’ll perform a glaucoma screening, as people with diabetes have a higher risk of developing this condition.
  • Provide Digital Retinal Imaging: We use advanced technology to take a high-resolution photograph of your retina, creating a baseline image that allows us to precisely track any changes over time.

Your Partner in Diabetic Eye Care

If you are diagnosed with a diabetes-related eye condition, Dr. Geneva will discuss your options and, if necessary, coordinate care with other specialists. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, ongoing care and education to help you proactively manage your eye health.

If you have diabetes, please schedule a dilated eye exam every year, even if your vision seems fine.

Contact Grand Haven Eyecare today to schedule your diabetic eye exam with Dr. Cynthia Geneva, OD. We are proud to serve the Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg communities with expert care.