Diabetic Retinopathy Exam Screening

High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the back of your eye, also called your retina. This condition is called diabetic retinopathy. Nearly three-fourths of people with diabetes develop some symptoms of diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy may include blurred vision, changes in central vision or floating spots and sudden vision loss. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss or blindness. But getting an annual comprehensive dilated eye exam can help protect your vision. Diabetic eye disease can be detected early and treated before noticeable vision loss occurs.

Diabetic retinal exams can detect damage to your eyes from diabetes before you notice any symptoms yourself. If you have diabetes, be sure to have a diabetic retinal exam with a specialist at least once a year. 

• Smoking may cause diabetic retinopathy to advance more quickly. If you stop smoking, you may reduce your risk.
• High blood pressure increases the risk of vision loss from diabetic retinopathy. Work with your doctor to ensure your blood pressure is at a healthy level.
• If you have kidney damage from diabetes, you may also be at a higher risk for diabetic retinopathy.

Your Florida Blue health plan covers preventive screening for diabetic retinopathy at no extra cost to you when you see an in-network doctor. To find a doctor, visit Florida Blue.