Where Can I Get A Diabetes Eye Exam in Edmonton?
When it comes to managing diabetes, eye health should be a top priority. Regular diabetes eye exams are essential for early detection and prevention of diabetes-related eye complications. At Helio Optometry eye care clinic in Edmonton, we understand the significance of these exams and their impact on your overall well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of annual diabetes eye exams, discuss common complications, clarify the difference between optometrists and ophthalmologists, and inform you about the coverage provided by Alberta Health Care. We encourage you to prioritize your eye health and book your diabetes eye exam with us.
The Importance of Annual Diabetes Eye Exams
Diabetes is a complex condition that can have far-reaching effects on your body, including your eyes. Regular diabetes eye exams are critical because they can:
Detect Issues Early: These exams can identify problems before they cause noticeable symptoms, enabling timely treatment and improved outcomes.
Prevent Severe Complications: By catching problems early, you can prevent severe eye complications that may lead to vision loss or blindness.
Monitor Progress: For those already diagnosed with diabetes-related eye conditions, annual exams allow healthcare providers to monitor the condition's progression and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.
Common Diabetes-Related Eye Complications
Several eye conditions are associated with diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2), including:
Diabetic Retinopathy: This condition damages the blood vessels in the retina, potentially causing vision impairment or blindness.
Diabetic Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula can lead to blurry or distorted vision.
Glaucoma: Diabetes can increase your risk of developing glaucoma, which may damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss.
Cataracts: People with diabetes are more prone to developing cataracts, leading to cloudy vision.
Optometrist vs. Ophthalmologist: Who Should You See?
You may wonder whether you need to see an ophthalmologist for diabetes eye exams. While ophthalmologists specialize in eye diseases and surgery, optometrists are highly trained professionals who can perform comprehensive eye exams, including those for diabetes-related issues. Optometrists can:
Diagnose and monitor diabetic eye conditions.
Diagnose diabetes-related eye problems.
Prescribe both topical and oral medications.
Prescribe glasses and contact lenses.
Provide referrals to retinal specialists for treatment if required.
Provide all of your post-surgical follow-up care.
Communicate the findings with your family physician, endocrinologist or diabetes specialists.
It's usually much more convenient to see an optometrist instead of an ophthalmologist, as we have shorter wait times and offer better appointment spots like evenings and weekends.
Advanced eye care clinics like Helio Optometry also incorporate the same technology as many ophthalmology offices, including Optomap Ultra Widefield Imaging, OCT Eye Health Scans and detailed dilated retinal exams, ensuring we provide the same level of care. Our eye doctors will also communicate and send letters back to your primary care physician or diabetes specialist so they know what's going on.
In the past, seeing an ophthalmologist was considered the standard of care. However, this is no longer the case; optometrists now see the majority of people diagnosed with diabetes (Type 1 & Type 2). If your optometrist finds a problem, they will ensure that you are seen by a retinal specialist specializing in diabetes eye health, the same way a general ophthalmologist would.
You do not need a referral from your doctor to see an optometrist for a diabetes eye health exam; you can just inform us when booking.
Diabetes Eye Exams Are Covered Under Alberta Health Care
Lots of people wonder if they need to pay to see an optometrist for an annual diabetes eye health exam in Edmonton.
The answer is no. Alberta Alberta Health Care covers diabetes eye exams for all people regardless of age. This means that these crucial eye health screenings are accessible to all eligible Alberta residents, ensuring your eye health doesn't become a financial burden.
Diabetes eye health exams, however, do not produce a prescription for new eyeglasses or contact lenses, and a separate visit may be required for these services.
Schedule Your Diabetes Eye Exam at Helio Optometry
At Helio Optometry, we recognize the importance of diabetes eye exams. Our experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing top-quality eye care services, including comprehensive diabetes-related eye exams. Booking your appointment is easy; you can schedule your diabetes eye exam with us online or by calling our clinic at 780-628-6855
