Diabetes can quietly steal your sight.
Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes long before you notice anything. A yearly dilated eye exam in Hilo is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to catch those changes early and protect your vision.
When high blood sugar reaches your eyes.
Over time, high blood sugar can weaken and damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensing layer at the back of your eye. This is called diabetic retinopathy, and it is one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults.
The tricky part is that it usually causes no symptoms until it is advanced. A dilated eye exam lets us see those early changes long before you would ever feel them, so we can act while your vision is still protectable.
A yearly habit that protects your sight.
For most people with diabetes, a dilated eye exam once a year is the gold standard. It is a simple, painless visit that can catch diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, and other changes early, when they are far easier to manage.
We keep your diabetic eye care right here on the Big Island, track any changes over time, and coordinate with your diabetes care team. If advanced treatment is ever needed, we explain your options and help arrange the next step.
Your diabetic eye exam, step by step.
Dilation
We place drops to widen your pupils, so we can see the retina and its blood vessels clearly. It is quick and painless.
Retinal exam
We examine the back of your eye for early signs of diabetic retinopathy, swelling, or other changes.
Your findings
We explain what we see in plain language and how it relates to your diabetes and your vision.
Plan & follow-up
We set the right exam interval for you and coordinate with your diabetes care, acting early if anything changes.
Diabetic eye care questions
How often should a diabetic have an eye exam?
Most people with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam at least once a year, and sometimes more often if changes are found. Regular exams are the best way to catch diabetic eye disease before it affects your vision. Call (808) 935-2964 to schedule.
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the retina caused by high blood sugar over time. It often has no early symptoms, but left unchecked it is a leading cause of vision loss. Early detection through regular exams makes it far more manageable.
Does a diabetic eye exam hurt?
No. A dilated eye exam is painless. We place drops to widen your pupils so we can examine the retina closely. Your vision may be blurry and light-sensitive for a few hours afterward, so it helps to bring sunglasses and, if possible, a driver.
Is it covered by insurance or Medicare?
Diabetic eye exams are typically covered by Medicare and most medical insurance because they are medically necessary for people with diabetes. We accept Medicare and will review your specific coverage at your visit.
How do I schedule?
Request a diabetic eye exam online or call (808) 935-2964. We will examine your retina, explain what we find, and coordinate with your diabetes care as needed.
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Learn moreHave diabetes? Protect your vision.
If it has been more than a year since your last dilated exam, now is the time. Book your diabetic eye exam in Hilo.
This information is for education and is not medical advice. Diabetic eye disease varies by individual, and a qualified provider is responsible for evaluating your eyes and recommending care. Regular exams and good diabetes management are essential to protecting your vision.