Diabetes doesn’t just affect your blood sugar - it can silently threaten your eyesight. At Southern Eyecare Associates, we help patients stay sharp by catching and treating diabetes-related eye issues early.
How Diabetes Impacts Vision
Diabetic eye disease is an umbrella term that includes several vision-threatening conditions, all tied to elevated blood sugar. The most common? Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, which can damage the retina and blur central vision. People with diabetes are also at higher risk for glaucoma and cataracts, two major causes of preventable blindness.
Here in Norfolk, many people live with diabetes and may not realize how closely it’s tied to their eye health. That’s especially concerning because some of these conditions don’t show obvious symptoms until vision is already compromised. Blurry vision, floaters, or trouble seeing at night might be dismissed as age-related, but they could be signs your eyes need medical attention now.
Regular diabetic eye exams are the best defense. At our practice, we monitor your retinal health closely using advanced imaging technology. Our eye care team can detect the earliest signs of damage, often before you notice anything’s wrong.
Norfolk: A Community at Risk
Norfolk is home to one of the largest veteran populations in Virginia, with many residents over age 50 - the same group most affected by diabetes-related eye conditions. Combine that with increased screen time, our coastal humidity (which can exacerbate dry eyes), and common barriers to care like transportation or lack of awareness, and the risks add up fast.
Our patients often tell us, “I wish I’d come in sooner.” We’re here to make sure you don’t have to say the same. With same-day emergency care, flexible scheduling, and a community-focused team, we’re proud to serve our neighbourhood.
Signs of Diabetic Eye Disease Patients Should Watch For
If you’ve got diabetes, especially Type 2 - certain eye symptoms should never be brushed off. Keep an eye out for:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Spots, floaters, or flashes of light
- Dark or empty areas in your central vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent changes in your glasses prescription
Even if your eyesight feels “fine,” diabetic eye disease can develop quietly. That’s why we recommend all diabetic patients in Norfolk get a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year. It’s not just about new glasses; it’s about preventing irreversible vision loss.
What Happens During a Diabetic Eye Exam in Norfolk
At Southern Eyecare Associates, diabetic eye exams are more than routine. We use high-resolution imaging, like optical coherence tomography (OCT), to get a clear view of your retina. This allows us to detect even the smallest signs of fluid buildup, blood vessel changes, or optic nerve issues before they impact your sight.
We also review your medical history, blood sugar control, and any medications that may affect your eyes. And because we know spme patients often manage multiple conditions, we tailor your care plan to support both your vision and your broader health goals.
We’re not here to rush you in and out—we’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve.
How to Prevent Vision Loss from Diabetes
Good diabetic eye care is a team effort. Managing your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol all play a role in protecting your sight. But so does keeping your scheduled eye exams and speaking up about any changes in your vision, no matter how small.
We work closely with your primary care physician or endocrinologist when needed, helping to bridge the gap between general health and eye-specific care. Our goal? Making sure your eyes stay healthy so you can keep living life on your terms - whether that means hunting, woodworking, gaming, or just reading the morning paper without straining.
Diabetic Eye Care in Norfolk, VA
At Southern Eyecare Associates, we’re proud to be veteran-owned - and even prouder to care for the veterans who call Norfolk home. We understand the lifestyle, the health risks, and the need for clear, compassionate communication.
If it’s been more than a year since your last diabetic eye exam, or if you’ve noticed changes in your vision, don’t wait. Schedule your eye exam and protect your sight now, so it’s still there when it matters most.