Diabetic Eye Exams in Wilkes Barre
Book Your AppointmentDetect & Manage Diabetes-Related Eye Conditions
Diabetes can significantly increase your chances of developing certain eye conditions and even lead to vision loss. The longer you have had diabetes, as well as whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, can also further increase your chances of developing serious, vision-threatening diseases and conditions.
Early detection is vital for diagnosing serious eye diseases and safeguarding your vision. Depending on the condition, your optometrist can help you slow or even halt vision loss.
Diabetic Retinopathy & You
One of the most serious conditions patients with diabetes may develop is diabetic retinopathy. This disease is caused by high blood sugar levels and hypertension, both of which are symptoms of diabetes.
High blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in the eyes, causing them to swell or leak. The damaged blood vessels may impair vision by allowing blood to leak into the vitreous (or gel-like interior) of the eye and can increase your chances of experiencing a retinal detachment.
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy has two stages:
- Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) is the early stage of diabetic retinopathy. During this stage, the blood vessels in the retina swell and leak. The retina and macula may experience swelling at this time as well.
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PRD) is the more advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy. New blood vessels grow to compensate for the damaged ones. However, they are incredibly fragile and prone to leaking, which can lead to vision loss. Additionally, if scar tissue begins to form, it can significantly increase your chances of experiencing a retinal detachment.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy rarely exhibits symptoms. The damage is so gradual it typically goes unnoticed. However, as the disease progresses, you may develop floaters, dark spots, and blurry vision. You may also have trouble seeing clearly at night. If you begin to notice any of these symptoms, please book an appointment as soon as possible.
Specialized Testing
We pride ourselves in providing thorough testing so we can help you make appropriate decisions related to your eye health. During a diabetic eye exam, we use a few different methods of testing to look for signs of eye diseases and other conditions.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
OCT takes cross-sectional pictures of your retina using non-invasive light. This allows us to see the layers within your retina and measure their thickness. Corneal thickness measurements can be used to pinpoint signs of swelling and make inferences about your eye health.
Fundus Photography
Fundus photography involves taking pictures of your eyes using a specialized microscope and attached camera. Once your pupil has been dilated, the camera takes a picture of the back of your eyes (the fundus).
The photo will provide your optometrist with a clear view of your retina, blood vessels, and optic nerve, and any associated abnormalities. We’ll also be able to see drusen (fatty proteins), abnormal bleeding, or any scar tissue that could be signs of trouble.
Treatment
Based on your results from our assessments and subsequent diagnosis, we can monitor your eyes or begin managing or treating your condition to slow its progression. Depending on the stage you’re in, the treatment and management options available to you may vary.
If your diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed in its early stages, you may not require treatment. However, we will recommend you visit your endocrinologist (diabetes specialist) to learn what steps you can take to better manage your diabetes, as controlling your blood sugar can help slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
For advanced stages, you may need surgical treatment. We’ll discuss your options with you after examining your eyes and advise you on your next steps.
Visit us in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania
We are located at 1114 Highway 315 Boulevard. We are in plaza 315 just south of the Mohegan Sun Casino adjacent the Woodlands Inn. If you have trouble finding us, please give us a call at 570-208-1111. For your convenience, ample parking is available.
Address
1114 Highway 315 Boulevard / Plaza 315Wilkes Barre, PA 18702
Hours of Operation
Services We Offer
Contacts are an excellent solution for individuals that want an alternative to glasses. We offer full exams and fittings to help you find the perfect style to suit your needs, as well as a wide selection of brands for you to choose from.
Contact Lens Exams, Fittings, & Brands
Dry eye disease can be a debilitating and uncomfortable condition that many Americans deal with daily. We offer treatments and solutions so you can find lasting relief and comfort.
Dry Eye Therapy
As we age, our chances of developing certain eye diseases and conditions increase. Regular eye exams are important for managing your ocular health and catching any issues before they can progress.
Adult & Senior Eye Exams
Often, eye conditions can go unnoticed to the untrained eye. Our experienced staff is here to pinpoint diseases and conditions like glaucoma and cataracts so we can offer solutions to help manage your condition and preserve your eyesight.
Eye Disease Diagnosis & ManagementOur Brands
Our Reviews
THE only place to get glasses in Wilkes Barre with one the best selection. After multiple interactions the staff has always been super helpful, and they never push you to buy or try to sell the most expensive glasses. Love it!
Lara
Engle Eyewear brings the luxury sunglasses-shopping experience in a friendly way. Renee Engle present the glasses giving you a back-story — who wore them, why they’re iconic, why they’ll fit your face perfectly, etc. There are so many different brands, but there’s definitely one there for you!
Leslie
Great store. Their glasses are pretty cool, and the staff could not be more friendly and helpful – they all seem to enjoy working there, which translates into enthusiasm and genuine customer engagement. I honestly never thought eye care would actually be kind of fun. The opticians are terrific too. My vision is unusual, and they really took the time (e.g., several rounds of test contact lenses) to make sure my prescription was right. And they stick with you – I could not recommend Tom & Renee Engle more highly.
Alessandro
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Engle Eyewear
- 1114 Highway 315 Boulevard / Plaza 315
- Wilkes Barre, PA 18702
- P: 570-208-1111