Why annual eye exams matter — even when your vision feels fine

By Brett Buckley, OD, Winona Health Eye Care Center

Many people assume eye exams are only necessary when vision becomes blurry or uncomfortable. As an optometrist, I often see patients who are surprised to learn that some of the most serious eye conditions develop quietly—without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

That’s why regular, comprehensive eye exams are such an important part of overall health care. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes should have routine eye exams to screen for diabetes-related eye disease, even when vision seems normal.

During a comprehensive, dilated eye exam, we don’t just check how well you can see. We evaluate the health of your eyes to look for early signs of disease, including conditions related to diabetes.

Diabetes increases the risk of several eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Diabetic retinopathy, in particular, is one of the leading causes of vision loss among people with diabetes. What makes it especially concerning is that damage to the eyes can occur before any changes in vision are noticeable.

The good news is that early detection works. When diabetes-related eye conditions are identified early, treatment is often more effective, and in many cases, vision loss can be prevented or slowed.

Even if your diabetes is well managed and your vision seems fine, regular eye exams remain an important part of long-term diabetes care. Most insurance plans cover annual eye exams as preventive care, making this one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your vision.

If it’s been a while since your last exam, I encourage you to schedule one. Your future vision is worth it. For more information about the Winona Health Eye Care Center, visit winonahealth.org/eyecare. To schedule an appointment, call: 507.474.4760 or through your My Winona Health patient portal.

Brett Buckley, OD, Eye Care Center