Diabetic Retinopathy and Eye Care in Austin

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that affects individuals living with diabetes. At 512 Eye, we prioritize the eye health of our diabetic patients through thorough, annual dilated eye exams. This condition occurs when consistently high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for transmitting visual signals to the brain.

If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss and even blindness. However, when detected in its early stages, progression can often be slowed, and in some cases, mild retinal changes may even improve with proper management of blood sugar and timely eye care.

Because retinal damage from diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness in adults, we strongly recommend annual dilated eye exams for all diabetic patients. Early detection is key to protecting your vision and preventing long-term complications.

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics are at risk for developing diabetic retinopathy. The better controlled your blood sugar is, the lower your risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes-related complications. Unfortunately, diabetic retinopathy often develops silently, with no symptoms in the early stages.

At 512 Eye, Dr. Sara Langer performs thorough diabetic eye exams, including dilation of the pupils and a detailed examination of the retina using a biomicroscope. This allows Dr. Langer to detect signs of diabetic damage to the eyes before symptoms occur. Early detection is critical—when diabetic retinopathy is identified early, treatment options are more effective and the chances of preserving vision improve significantly. Left untreated, particularly in patients with uncontrolled blood sugar, diabetic retinopathy can progress and lead to blindness.

Regular monitoring of your fasting blood sugar and HbA1c (a 3-month average blood sugar test provided by your primary care physician or endocrinologist) is essential. Patients with stable glucose levels tend to have a significantly lower risk of developing diabetic eye disease and other systemic complications. If your fasting blood sugar is above 200 mg/dL, temporary swelling of the lens inside the eye may occur, which can result in inaccurate glasses prescriptions. For best results, we recommend that diabetic patients ensure their fasting blood sugar is under 200 mg/dL before undergoing a vision check for new eyeglasses.

One of the unique things about the eyes is that they offer a direct view of the effects of diabetes without the need for invasive procedures. If diabetic retinopathy is visible in the retina, it often signals that similar damage may be occurring in other parts of the body. For example, diabetic patients with retinopathy are at increased risk for complications such as peripheral neuropathy and kidney disease. Detecting retinopathy early may help prevent further systemic damage and initiate interventions to improve overall health outcomes.

Dr. Langer collaborates closely with your endocrinologist or primary care provider, sharing exam findings that may indicate the need for changes in medication, diet, or lifestyle. For advanced cases of retinopathy that may require surgery or laser treatment, Dr. Langer co-manages care with trusted ophthalmologists in the Austin area to ensure continuity and the highest standard of diabetic eye care.

Schedule your diabetic eye exam in Austin today with 512 Eye by calling 512-596-5544 or booking here.