A local optometrist is an eye doctor who provides vision testing and vision care. A local optometrist is different from an ophthalmologist, who may perform surgery and medical procedures. The goal of a local optometrist is to promote optimal eye health throughout a patient’s life, from fitting glasses in early childhood to glaucoma testing in later years. If you have diabetes, seeing a local optometrist regularly is very important, as they can be the first person to detect diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to blood vessels in your retinal tissues. This condition can be a result of poor blood sugar management. Your local optometrist can work with your local endocrinologist to help you manage your diabetes.