Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment in San Antonio, TX

Understanding Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of vision-threatening conditions that can develop as a result of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in the retina, leading to complications such as diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema (DME), glaucoma, and cataracts. If left untreated, these conditions can cause significant vision loss or even blindness.
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Because diabetic eye disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, regular eye exams are essential for early detection and management. At Trinidad Vision, we specialize in identifying and treating diabetes-related eye conditions to help preserve your eyesight and prevent long-term damage.

When to See a Doctor About Diabetic Eye Disease in San Antonio, TX

Diabetic eye disease can develop gradually, making it crucial for individuals with diabetes to schedule routine eye exams—even if their vision seems normal. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible:

Blurred or fluctuating vision that doesn’t improve with prescription changes
Dark spots, floaters, or flashes of light in your field of vision
Difficulty seeing at night or increased glare sensitivity
Washed-out colors or decreased contrast sensitivity
Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes

The risk of diabetic eye disease increases with poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure, and long-term diabetes. Regular screenings can help detect problems early and prevent permanent damage. If you have diabetes, schedule a consultation at Trinidad Vision to ensure your eyes are properly monitored.

Woman at elevators in front of San Antonio Eye Specialists sign.

Our Diabetic Eye Disease Diagnosis Process

Step 1: Comprehensive Diabetic Eye Exam

Dr. Jake Trinidad and our team begin with a thorough examination of your eye health, focusing on the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. We evaluate your visual acuity and check for early signs of diabetic-related complications.

Step 2: Advanced Retinal Imaging & Testing

Using state-of-the-art imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, we assess the condition of your retinal blood vessels. These tests help us detect swelling, bleeding, or abnormal blood vessel growth caused by diabetes.

Step 3: Individualized Treatment & Vision Preservation Plan

Based on your test results, we develop a customized plan to slow disease progression and protect your eyesight. In mild cases, managing blood sugar and lifestyle factors may be sufficient. If signs of advanced diabetic eye disease are present, we’ll discuss treatment options such as laser therapy, medications, or surgical intervention.

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What to Expect with Diabetic Eye Disease

Diabetes-related vision problems can progress without noticeable warning signs. Diabetic retinopathy, the most common form of diabetic eye disease, develops in stages:

Mild to moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): Small retinal blood vessels weaken, leak fluid, and cause swelling, but vision may remain stable.
Severe NPDR: More significant blood vessel damage occurs, leading to retinal hemorrhages and increased risk of vision loss
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): The most advanced stage, where new blood vessels form, potentially causing retinal detachment, severe bleeding, and blindness.

Additionally, diabetic macular edema (DME) can develop at any stage, leading to swelling in the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision). This can make reading, driving, and recognizing faces difficult.

At Trinidad Vision, we emphasize early intervention and preventative care to minimize complications. With proper management, many patients with diabetes can maintain good vision for years to come.

Dr. Jake Trinidad

Medical Director & Lead Surgeon

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Why Choose Trinidad Vision?

Managing diabetic eye disease requires specialized care, and at Trinidad Vision, we’re committed to helping patients with diabetes protect their sight. Dr. Jake Trinidad and our experienced team provide advanced diagnostic tools and proactive treatment plans designed to detect complications early and slow the progression of diabetic eye disease.

With a focus on patient education and long-term eye health, we ensure that every individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing diabetes long-term, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Diabetic Eye Disease Treatment San Antonio Loves

I’ve found the ophthalmologist that I was looking for!!

“This was the most comfortable Dr appointment I’ve ever had.. there was no waiting.. the machines for checking out your eyes were so easy.. and I was so happy to reunite with a first grade student that I had the pleasure of teaching .. Dr. Trinidad!! What a sweet surprise..
His office has great technicians and the atmosphere was very welcoming !! I’ve found the ophthalmologist that I was looking for !!"

Trudy A.

Dr Trinidad and his staff are a great team.

“They are well organized. Office wait time has been very short, about 5 minutes each time I have visited! Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision. I highly recommend Dr Trinidad”

Keelin W.

Dr Trinidad is absolutely the best!

“I’m almost 86 years old been to a lot of ophthalmologists and he is without a doubt the most communicative, caring, brilliant, best kept secret in San Antonio! Highly recommend not doing anybody with him he has it all.”

Trudy A.

Very compassionate and professional and gave me peace of mind.

"My visit with Dr.Trinidad and his staff was for my annual Diabetic eye exam. It went extremely well, Dr Trinidad's staff made me feel very much at ease. After Dr. Trinidad examined my eye's.He took his time to explain his findings and scheduled a followup.I would highly recommend Dr. Trinidad. He was very compassionate and professional and gave me peace of mind. Thank you so much to Dr. Trinidad and staff."

Joseph Luciano

They were helpful and knowledgeable.

"I had an excellent experience with Dr. Trinidad and his medical assistants and other employees... The Dr. and his staff was wonderful, and they were able to diagnose my problems effectively, providing me with the information and advice needed."

Grant H.

Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision

"Dr Trinidad and his staff are a great team. They are well organized. Office wait time has been very short, about 5 minutes each time I have visited! Just had surgery and now I have 20/20 vision. I highly recommend Dr Trinidad"

Keelin W.

Absolutely the warmest Dr. Visit I had in awhile

"Absolutely the warmest Dr. Visit I had in awhile, the communication how Dr. Trinidad explained everything so detailed was very impressed. Honestly felt like I was talking to a childhood friend 👌. Nicole as a representative at the front was incredibly pleasant. They also had T. Ford, Versace, CHANEL and offer botox (I think)."

Donivon Y.

Above and beyond

"Everyone had patience, was understanding, and went above and beyond to calm my nerves through out my whole visit. Not only did Dr.Trinidad take his time to make sure I understood what he was seeing/going on with my eyes but he truly does care and is passionate about his work. I definitely will be making him the person I go to for all my eye visits."

Kayla W.

Insurance & Financing Options

Diabetes-related eye care is typically covered by most medical insurance plans, but specific coverage may depend on your provider and the severity of your condition. At Trinidad Vision, we work with major insurance plans, including VSP and other vision coverage options, and offer financing solutions to help make essential eye care accessible.

If you’re unsure about your benefits or have questions about coverage, our team is happy to assist. Contact us to discuss your options and ensure you receive the care you need.

Financing & Insurance Options

Frequently Asked Questions

Can diabetic eye disease be reversed?

While early stages of diabetic eye disease can often be managed with lifestyle changes and blood sugar control, damage from advanced diabetic retinopathy or macular edema may be permanent. However, treatments like laser therapy and injections can slow progression and help protect remaining vision.

How often should people with diabetes get an eye exam?

The American Diabetes Association recommends annual eye exams for individuals with diabetes. If you have existing eye complications, more frequent monitoring may be necessary.

Can I prevent diabetic eye disease?

While not entirely preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by controlling your blood sugar, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and scheduling regular eye exams to catch problems early.

Does diabetic eye disease always cause vision loss?

Not necessarily. Many people with diabetes maintain good vision with proper management and early detection. The key is consistent monitoring and treatment as soon as changes are detected.

Is diabetic eye disease treatment covered by insurance?

Yes, most insurance plans cover exams and treatment for diabetic eye disease, as it is considered a medical condition rather than routine vision care. Our team can help you understand your coverage.

Can diabetic eye disease cause scar tissue in the eye?

Yes. Advanced diabetic eye disease, particularly proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), can lead to the formation of scar tissue in the retina. As abnormal blood vessels grow and leak, the body attempts to heal the damage, sometimes forming scar tissue. Over time, this scar tissue can contract, pulling on the retina and increasing the risk of retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated.