Diabetic Eye Exams in Honolulu
Why People with Diabetes Need an Annual Eye Exam
What is diabetic eye disease?
- Diabetic retinopathy: damage to retinal blood vessels that can leak or grow abnormally.
- Cataract: clouding of the natural lens.
- Glaucoma: damage to the optic nerve.
- These conditions are more common in people with diabetes.
Who is at risk?
Anyone with diabetes is at risk, and risk increases with the number of years you’ve had diabetes. According to the CDC, an estimated 40 to 45 percent of U.S. adults with diagnosed diabetes have some degree of diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms (and why you may not feel them)
Early diabetic retinopathy often has no pain and no symptoms. As vessels weaken and leak, you may notice blurred vision. Swelling in the macula (macular edema) or bleeding from new vessels can block vision entirely. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Early detection is what protects your sight.
What happens during a diabetic eye exam?
We perform a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Drops gently widen the pupils so your doctor can examine the retina and optic nerve with special lenses. Your vision may be blurry for a few hours afterward, so bring sunglasses and consider arranging a ride.
Protecting your vision with diabetes
Healthy eyes start with whole-health habits:
- TRACK IT: Take medications as prescribed, reach a healthy weight, add physical activity, and control your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Kick smoking.
- Schedule a yearly dilated eye exam, or sooner if your vision changes.
- If you’re pregnant and have diabetes, see an eye doctor as soon as possible and continue care throughout pregnancy.
Other eye conditions linked to diabetes
People with diabetes are about twice as likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma compared with those without diabetes. Cataracts are treated with surgery, and glaucoma is treated with medications, surgery, or both.
Your Visit at Simply Eyes Hawaii
- Personalized history and risk review (A1C, blood pressure, medications, symptoms).
- Visual acuity and pressure checks.
- Pupil dilation with retinal and nerve evaluation, plus digital imaging as needed.
- Clear results and a plan, including prevention tips, follow-up timing, and treatment or referral when appropriate.
- Coordination with your primary care doctor or endocrinologist.
We’re proud to serve patients managing diabetes throughout Makiki, Ala Moana, Kakaako, McCully, and Mōʻiliʻili. Most vision and medical insurance plans, along with FSA and HSA funds, can be used toward diabetic eye exams. Our team can help verify your coverage before your visit.
Diabetic Eye Exam FAQs
Damage to the retina’s tiny blood vessels caused by diabetes. It can leak fluid or grow fragile new vessels that bleed, leading to vision loss if untreated.
At least once a year for anyone with diabetes, or sooner if your doctor recommends it or your vision changes.
Yes. Early disease is often symptom-free. Dilation lets your doctor see problems before you’d notice any change in vision.
Laser therapy and in-office injections can slow leakage, shrink abnormal vessels, and often improve vision, depending on the case.
Yes. Schedule an exam as soon as possible and continue follow-up visits throughout your pregnancy.