DIABETIC RETINAL EVALUATION AND MANAGEMENT BY LICENSED OPTOMETRISTS 

Diabetes is the number one cause of blindness in North America. Whether you have type 1, type 2, or even just gestational diabetes, you can be at risk for diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy affects the small blood vessels in your eye and can cause them to leak blood or fluid which can cause irreversible vision loss. High blood sugar can also affect the lens in your eye and cause things to become blurry. In severe cases, poorly controlled blood sugar over long periods of time can cause retina detachment.

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The Ontario Association of Optometrists recommends yearly eye exams if you are diagnosed with diabetes, and your optometrist may recommend closer follow-up if any findings or complications arise. As diabetes can seriously affect your eyes, causing temporary or permanent vision loss, annual eye exams are critical for people living with diabetes, and are covered by OHIP regardless of age

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