What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam
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Diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness in adults under the age of 65.
If you’re living with diabetes, your eyes could be at risk—even if your vision seems perfectly fine.
At Stonewire Optometry, located in Kingsway Mall just north of downtown Edmonton, we specialize in diabetic eye exams beyond the basics to protect your vision and overall eye health.
Let us walk you through what to expect during a diabetic eye exam and why it’s critical to managing your diabetes.
Understanding Diabetes and Its Impact on Your Eyes
As of 2025, approximately 9.3% of Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetes, which includes both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes (with Type 2 diabetes being the most common form).
It's also estimated that many more Canadians may have prediabetes or undiagnosed diabetes, highlighting the importance of regular health screenings, including eye exams, to detect and manage the condition early.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose).
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those in your eyes. This can lead to a range of eye conditions, collectively known as diabetic eye disease, which includes:
Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which can cause vision loss.
Diabetic macular edema (DME): Swelling in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.
Cataracts and glaucoma: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing these conditions earlier in life.
The scary part? Many of these conditions develop without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has already occurred.
Regular diabetic eye exams are essential for early detection and treatment.
How Your Optometrist Examines Your Eyes
At Stonewire Optometry in Kingsway Mall, we use advanced technology and follow the highest standard of care to ensure your eyes are thoroughly evaluated. Here’s what you can expect during your diabetic eye exam:
Comprehensive Health History Review: We’ll start by discussing your diabetes management, medical history, and any vision concerns you may have. This helps us tailor the exam to your specific needs.
Visual Acuity Test: This standard test measures how well you can see at various distances. While it’s a basic part of any eye exam, it provides important baseline information about your vision and is one of the most subtle ways to tell if things have changed.
Dilated Retinal Examination: Dilating your eyes allows your optometrist to get a clear view of your retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This is the gold standard for detecting signs of diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions.
Ultra-Widefield Retinal Imaging: This cutting-edge technology captures detailed images of your retina, including areas that are difficult to see with traditional methods. It’s a quick, non-invasive way to monitor changes in your eye health over time. Optomap is an amazing technology that allows you to See What We See.
OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) Analysis: OCT is a powerful imaging tool that provides cross-sectional views of your retina. It’s particularly useful for detecting diabetic macular edema (DME) by measuring retinal thickness and identifying fluid buildup.
Personalized Care Plan: Based on your exam results, your optometrist will discuss any findings and recommend a follow-up plan. If signs of diabetic eye disease are present, we’ll work with you to manage the condition and preserve your vision.
How Often Should You Have a Diabetic Eye Exam?
For individuals with diabetes, the Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends at least one comprehensive eye exam per year.
However, if signs of diabetic eye disease are detected, your optometrist may recommend more frequent visits to monitor your condition closely. Early detection and timely treatment are key to preventing vision loss, so don’t wait for symptoms to appear before scheduling your exam.
Protect Your Vision—Book Your Diabetic Eye Exam Today
Your eyes are a window to your overall health, and when it comes to diabetes, regular eye exams are non-negotiable. At Stonewire Optometry, located in Kingsway Mall just north of downtown Edmonton, we combine expertise, advanced technology, and a patient-friendly approach to ensure you receive the best possible care. Whether you’re due for your annual exam or have concerns about your eye health, we’re here to help.
Don’t let diabetes take a toll on your vision. Book your diabetic eye exam today by calling us at 780-628-6886 or book your appointment online. Your eyes deserve the best care—let us provide it at Stonewire Optometry, your trusted eye care clinic in Kingsway Mall.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Stonewire Optometry eye care clinic in Edmonton’s Kingsway Mall, and is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Stonewire Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.
