Diabetic retinopathy
We look for damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, including leaking, bleeding or abnormal new vessels.
Diabetic eye care
Diabetic Eye Exams in Edmonton, St. Albert & Morinville
Diabetes can quietly affect your eyes long before you notice. An annual exam catches it early.
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults, but most early damage has no symptoms. A diabetic eye exam checks the retina and blood vessels at the back of the eye so changes are found and managed early, while your vision can still be protected.
- Screening for diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal imaging and dilation when needed
- Care coordinated with your family doctor
- Often covered by Alberta Health Care
- Six Edmonton-area locations
Why it matters
How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes
High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This is called diabetic retinopathy, and it can develop with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy usually has no symptoms, so you can feel fine while changes are already happening. Left unchecked, it can lead to bleeding, swelling of the macula and permanent vision loss.
Regular diabetic eye exams let your optometrist detect these changes early, monitor them over time, and coordinate care with your family doctor or a specialist when needed.
In short
What Is a Diabetic Eye Exam?
A diabetic eye exam is a medical eye exam focused on finding the eye changes caused by diabetes. Your optometrist widens the pupils when needed, examines the retina and its blood vessels, checks for swelling at the macula, and may capture retinal images to track changes over time.
It is recommended every year for most people with diabetes, even when your vision seems fine, and it is generally covered by Alberta Health Care.
What we check
What a Diabetic Eye Exam Looks For
Diabetes can affect several parts of the eye, so the exam is thorough.
Macular edema
We check the macula, the centre of your vision, for swelling that can blur sight if it is left untreated.
Retinal imaging
Where appropriate, we capture images of the back of the eye to document changes and compare them over time.
Eye pressure
We measure eye pressure, since people with diabetes have a higher risk of glaucoma.
Cataract signs
Diabetes can lead to cataracts earlier in life, so we check the lens of the eye.
Overall eye health
We assess your vision and the front of the eye to build a full picture of your eye health.
Ready to book?
Living with diabetes? Book your annual eye exam at any of our six clinics.
Book a Diabetic Eye Exam
What to expect
What Happens at a Diabetic Eye Exam
- 1 We review your historyWe ask about your diabetes, how long you have had it, your blood sugar control and any medications.
- 2 We check your visionWe measure how clearly you see and whether your prescription has changed.
- 3 We dilate when neededDrops widen the pupils so your optometrist can see the retina clearly. Vision may be blurry for a few hours after.
- 4 We examine and image the retinaWe look closely at the retina and blood vessels and may capture images to track changes.
- 5 We explain what we foundWe walk you through the results and what they mean for your eyes and your diabetes care.
- 6 We plan follow-up and referralsWe set your next exam and coordinate with your family doctor or a specialist if treatment is needed.
Who should book
Book a Diabetic Eye Exam If You Have Diabetes
An annual exam is recommended for most people with diabetes. Book sooner if any of these apply.
- You have not had an eye exam in the past year
- You were recently diagnosed with diabetes
- You are pregnant and have diabetes
- Your blood sugar has been hard to control
- Your vision has become blurry or changeable
- You notice new floaters or dark spots
Call us right away if you have sudden vision loss, a curtain or shadow over your vision, or many new floaters. These can be signs of a serious problem.
Good news
See Alberta Coverage
Your Diabetic Eye Exam May Be Covered
Because diabetes affects eye health, Alberta Health Care generally covers an eye exam each year for Albertans with diabetes, at any age. Our team will confirm your coverage and direct bill where possible.
Quick questions
Diabetic Eye Care, Answered
How often should I have a diabetic eye exam?
Most people with diabetes should have an eye exam every year, or more often if your optometrist finds changes that need closer monitoring.
Will I notice if diabetes is affecting my eyes?
Often not. Early diabetic retinopathy usually has no symptoms, which is why a yearly exam is so important even when your vision feels fine.
Is the exam covered?
Diabetic eye exams are generally covered by Alberta Health Care because they are medically necessary. We will confirm your coverage when you book.
Where to go
Book a Diabetic Eye Exam Near You
Capital Vision Care offers diabetic eye exams across six Edmonton-area clinics. Choose the location that works best for your schedule, commute or neighbourhood.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the retina caused by high blood sugar over time. It is a leading cause of vision loss in adults and can be managed well when it is caught early.
How often should someone with diabetes get an eye exam?
Most people with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam every year. Your optometrist may recommend more frequent exams if changes are found.
Is a diabetic eye exam covered by Alberta Health Care?
Yes, in most cases. Because diabetes affects eye health, an annual eye exam is generally covered as medically necessary care for Albertans with diabetes, at any age.
Does a diabetic eye exam require dilation?
Often, yes. Dilating drops widen the pupils so your optometrist can see the retina clearly. Your vision may be blurry and light-sensitive for a few hours afterward, so consider bringing sunglasses and arranging a ride.
Can diabetes cause blindness?
Untreated diabetic eye disease can lead to severe vision loss, but regular exams and good diabetes control greatly reduce that risk. Early detection is key.
I have no vision problems. Do I still need a diabetic eye exam?
Yes. Early diabetic eye changes usually have no symptoms, so a yearly exam is recommended even when your vision feels normal.
What should I bring to my diabetic eye exam?
Bring your Alberta Health card, a list of your medications, your glasses or contacts, and information about your diabetes and recent blood sugar levels if you have it.
Explore more
Related Services
Protect Your Vision From Diabetes
An annual diabetic eye exam is one of the most effective ways to catch eye changes early. Book at one of our six Edmonton-area clinics today.
Sources
Sources and Further Reading
Trusted background on diabetic eye health and Alberta coverage: