· Domiano Eye Care
How Diabetes Affects the Eyes
High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time these vessels may leak fluid, swell, or become blocked. The resulting condition is diabetic retinopathy, one of the leading causes of vision loss among adults.
The challenge is that diabetic retinopathy usually develops slowly. Many patients have no pain, redness, or noticeable vision changes in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, damage may already be present — which is why Dr. Michele Domiano and our team monitor patients throughout Old Forge, Clarks Summit, and the surrounding communities for early signs.
Five Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease
Retinal changes can develop without any warning at all. As the condition progresses, however, the following symptoms may appear:
- Blurry or fluctuating vision: High blood sugar can change how clearly the retina sees. Some people notice their vision shifting from day to day; others have persistent blur that makes reading, driving, or using digital devices harder.
- Floaters and dark spots: Damaged vessels may leak fluid or blood into the eye, creating floating spots, cobweb-like shapes, or shadows that drift across your field of vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night: Driving after sunset, navigating dim rooms, or adjusting to changing light can become more challenging.
- Missing areas of vision: Advanced disease can affect portions of the retina, leading to blind spots, dark areas, or gaps in your vision.
- Sudden vision loss: In severe cases, bleeding inside the eye or significant retinal damage can cause a sudden decrease in vision. This is less common, but it highlights why regular exams matter even when your eyesight seems perfectly normal.
Why Early Detection Matters
When diabetic eye disease is identified early, treatment options are far more successful at preserving vision. That is why annual diabetic eye exams are considered an essential part of diabetes management.
At Domiano Eye Care, we use advanced retinal imaging to look for subtle changes that a basic vision screening cannot show. These images let us detect tiny abnormalities — including microaneurysms and small retinal hemorrhages — before they begin to affect vision. Many patients are surprised to learn that signs of retinopathy can appear long before they notice any change in day-to-day sight.
Diabetic Eye Exams in Old Forge & Clarks Summit
Diabetes affects families throughout Pennsylvania, including the communities around Old Forge, Clarks Summit, and Scranton. Whether you were recently diagnosed, have lived with diabetes for years, or have been told you are pre-diabetic, regular eye care should be part of your healthcare routine.
Dr. Michele Domiano and our team provide comprehensive diabetic eye evaluations designed to detect changes early and monitor your eye health year after year, supporting the rest of your diabetes care plan. Schedule your annual diabetic eye evaluation at either of our offices.
Frequently asked questions
- How often should someone with diabetes have an eye exam?
- Most people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes should have a comprehensive diabetic eye exam at least once a year. Your eye doctor may recommend more frequent visits depending on your eye health and medical history.
- Can diabetic retinopathy be treated?
- Yes. Several treatment options are available, especially when the condition is detected early. Regular monitoring helps identify changes before they threaten vision.
- Do I need an eye exam if my diabetes is well controlled?
- Yes. Even patients with well-managed blood sugar can develop diabetic eye disease. Annual exams remain an important part of protecting long-term eye health.
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