At Eyecare Kingston, we understand that diabetes can affect far more than blood sugar levels — it can also have a significant impact on long-term eye health. Patients living with diabetes are at increased risk for conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma, cataracts, and other retinal complications, often before noticeable symptoms develop.

Our diabetic eye exams are designed to monitor both vision and retinal health using advanced diagnostic technology, including Optomap ultra-widefield retinal imaging and macular OCT scanning. Optomap allows us to evaluate a significantly larger view of the retina, while OCT technology provides highly detailed cross-sectional imaging of the retinal layers and macula. Together, these technologies support earlier detection, more precise monitoring, and comprehensive diabetic eye health assessments.

In addition to retinal imaging, your exam includes a thorough assessment of your vision, eye health, and any diabetes-related changes that may require ongoing monitoring or treatment recommendations. Early detection plays an important role in helping protect long-term vision and reducing the risk of permanent vision loss.

Our experienced clinical team provides personalized diabetic eye care focused on prevention, monitoring, and long-term visual health.

If you are living with diabetes, regular eye examinations are an important part of maintaining both your eye health and overall well-being.

When Should You Have an Eye Exam if You Have Diabetes?

If you have diabetes, the Canadian Diabetes Association recommends getting a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year to monitor your eye health. However, the frequency of exams may increase depending on your individual health status and how well your diabetes is managed. Here's a general guideline:

• Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes: Get an eye exam as soon as possible after diagnosis, and then annually or more frequently if advised by your optometrist.
• Pregnancy and Diabetes: Diabetic Retinopathy can worsen in pregnancy so it is important to get a diabetic eye exam before getting pregnant and while pregnant.

Regular eye exams can catch potential issues early, even before symptoms appear. This is key in preventing serious complications like vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy.