There are many medical conditions that require frequent and thorough exams. Patients with diabetes, for example, must be closely monitored by doctors to ensure they are using the proper amounts of insulin each day. However, as diabetics have an increased risk of developing eye diseases, it’s important to make sure your diabetic patients understand their risk and the need for routine eye exams.

Aside from the obvious risk of developing glaucoma. They are 60 percent more likely of developing cataracts than individuals without diabetics. While diabetics may realize they face a greater risk of these conditions, what many aren’t aware of is that some signs and symptoms of these diseases are nearly invisible to them until the disease is in an advanced stage.

In order to catch diabetic eye diseases before they begin to cause irreparable damage, or prevent further damage from occurring, patients must understand the importance of comprehensive routine eye exams. Tina MacDonald, O.D. and Certified Diabetes Educator, says diabetic patients should have an exam at least once a year, so the patient’s retina can be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of diabetic eye diseases. This way, they can also provide patients with a course of action if a disease is detected.

An optomap® image displaying diabetic retinopathy

Optos can help you provide patients with and without diabetes a more thorough exam. Our ultra-widefield retinal imaging technology provides a wider view of the retina, allowing you to see and diagnose more without the need to dilate patients’ eyes. Images are available for you to review with your patients immediately, so you can show them exactly what you see and use for comparison in future routine exams. Visit our website today to learn more about our technology.