Diabetes can affect the eyes long before vision changes become noticeable. For patients in Los Angeles, a diabetic eye exam can help detect early retinal changes and hidden risks that may not be obvious from symptoms alone. At Optikos Optometry, advanced testing like the RETeval® DR Score helps provide a deeper understanding of retinal function beyond what a standard retinal photo can show.

Why Retinal Photos Are Important

A retinal photo captures detailed images of the back of the eye. This helps your optometrist look for visible changes such as bleeding, swelling, damaged blood vessels, or signs of diabetic retinopathy. For many patients, retinal imaging is an important part of monitoring long-term eye health.

However, a photo mainly shows the structure of the retina. It can reveal what the eye looks like at the time of the exam, but it may not always show how well the retina is functioning. That is where the RETeval DR Score can add helpful information.

What The RETeval DR Score Measures

The RETeval test is designed to measure retinal function. It evaluates how the retina responds to light and provides an objective DR Score that helps assess diabetic retinopathy risk. Instead of only looking for visible damage, this test helps your eye doctor understand how the retina is performing.

This is especially helpful because diabetic eye disease can develop quietly. Some patients may have early functional changes before they notice blurry vision, floaters, or other warning signs.

Why Early Retinal Function Changes Matter

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most important eye conditions to monitor for anyone with diabetes. When found early, your optometrist can recommend closer monitoring, coordinate care with your medical provider, or refer you to a retinal specialist when needed.

The RETeval DR Score may help identify patients who need more careful follow-up by giving additional insight into retinal stress and function. For Los Angeles patients managing diabetes, this can make the exam more personalized and proactive.

A diabetic eye exam may include:

•          Vision testing to check for prescription changes

•          Retinal photos to document visible changes

•          RETeval DR Score testing to assess retinal function

•          Eye pressure measurement and overall eye health evaluation

•          Recommendations for follow-up care based on your results

How This Supports Better Diabetic Eye Care

A retinal photo and RETeval DR Score work together. One helps show what the retina looks like, while the other helps measure how the retina is responding. This combination can help your optometrist make more informed recommendations based on both structure and function.

For patients in Los Angeles, this type of testing is especially valuable if you have diabetes, prediabetes, fluctuating blood sugar, a family history of diabetic eye disease, or previous retinal changes. Even if your vision feels normal, an annual diabetic eye exam can help detect concerns before they become more serious.

When To Schedule A Diabetic Eye Exam

If you have diabetes, do not wait for symptoms to appear before scheduling an eye exam. Blurry vision, dark spots, trouble seeing at night, or sudden changes in vision should always be evaluated promptly. Regular testing helps protect your sight and gives your eye doctor a clearer picture of your long-term risk.

Schedule your eye exam with RETeval® testing at Optikos Optometry to get a more complete look at your retinal health and hidden vision risks. Contact our office in Los Angeles, California, by calling (213) 642-3200 to book an appointment today.