Diabetic Eye Exam in Colorado Springs

A diabetic eye exam is a specialized examination designed for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Its purpose is to detect early signs of diabetes-related eye disease before vision is affected. Because diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, regular monitoring is essential to protecting long-term vision. Many diabetic eye conditions develop without noticeable symptoms. Routine diabetic eye exams allow early detection and timely treatment, helping prevent permanent vision loss.

Close-up view of an optometrist's phoropter, a device used for measuring refractive error and determining eyeglass prescriptions during an eye exam.
Close-up view of an optometrist's phoropter, a device used for measuring refractive error and determining eyeglass prescriptions during an eye exam.

Why Diabetic Eye Exams Are Essential

People living with diabetes are at increased risk for serious eye conditions, including:

  • Diabetic retinopathy

  • Diabetic macular edema

  • Cataracts

  • Glaucoma

These conditions often progress silently. Early diagnosis through regular exams significantly improves outcomes and preserves vision.

Who Should Schedule a Diabetic Eye Exam

  • Type 1 Diabetes: First exam within five years of diagnosis, then annually

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Exam immediately upon diagnosis, then annually

  • Pregnancy with diabetes: Exam during the first trimester and follow-up as recommended

  • Ongoing care: Annual exams, or more frequently if changes are detected

Do not wait for symptoms—by the time vision changes occur, damage may already be advanced.

An eye doctor performs an eye exam on a patient using a slit lamp, shining a bright light into the patient's eye.
An eye doctor performs an eye exam on a patient using a slit lamp, shining a bright light into the patient's eye.
A woman stands at a computer while a man sits nearby in an eyewear store, with display racks of glasses in the background.
A woman stands at a computer while a man sits nearby in an eyewear store, with display racks of glasses in the background.

What to Expect During a Diabetic Eye Exam

A diabetic eye exam includes more than a standard vision test and may involve:

  • Visual acuity testing

  • Pupil dilation to examine the retina and optic nerve

  • Retinal evaluation for blood vessel damage or swelling

  • Intraocular pressure testing to screen for glaucoma

  • Advanced retinal imaging, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

OCT provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina and helps detect diabetic macular edema and subtle retinal changes early.

Diabetic Eye Exams vs. Regular Eye Exams

While regular eye exams focus on vision correction, diabetic eye exams place special emphasis on retinal health and blood vessel integrity. Additional testing and imaging allow your eye doctor to identify diabetes-related changes that standard exams may not detect.

A man in a suit assists another man undergoing an eye exam using specialized equipment in an office setting.
A man in a suit assists another man undergoing an eye exam using specialized equipment in an office setting.

Early Signs of Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease often has no early symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • Blurry or distorted vision

  • Dark spots or floaters

  • Difficulty seeing at night

  • Sudden vision changes

Regular exams remain the most effective way to detect disease before symptoms appear.

Advanced Diagnostic Technology at Spectrum Eye Care

Spectrum Eye Care uses advanced diagnostic tools to deliver precise, proactive care, including:

  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for retinal analysis

  • Retinal imaging to monitor blood vessel health

  • Specialized testing when needed to assess disease progression

These technologies allow for early intervention and ongoing monitoring tailored to each patient.

A woman in a blue shirt stands beside a seated man undergoing an eye exam with a phoropter in an optometrist's office.
A woman in a blue shirt stands beside a seated man undergoing an eye exam with a phoropter in an optometrist's office.
Six people stand on a balcony in front of a building with a sign that reads "Spectrum Eye Care.
Six people stand on a balcony in front of a building with a sign that reads "Spectrum Eye Care.

Schedule Your Diabetic Eye Exam

Protecting your vision is a critical part of managing diabetes. Regular diabetic eye exams help detect problems early, guide treatment decisions, and preserve eyesight.

Spectrum Eye Care provides comprehensive diabetic eye exams in Colorado Springs with advanced technology and personalized care.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam today and take an important step toward safeguarding your vision.