Diabetic Retinopathy

If you suffer with diabetes you should already be having retinal screening through your Doctor at least once every 2 years, it is also important to have your eyes tested every year as diabetes can effect the eye in many ways and it is important to keep a close watch on it.

Diabetes can affect the eyes in many different ways, one of the most noticeable effect to you is the variation it can cause in the prescription. This can mean that on some days a clear image will be obtained and on other days the image will appear blurred. Once the diabetes is under control these changes should be minimised and not be that apparent to you. Cataracts are more likely to appear at an earlier age (the treatment is the same as for other types of cataract).

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that affects the eye, the prevalence increases with the duration of diabetes and if the diabetes is not kept under control. Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that involves changes in the blood vessels, which can lead to the leakage of blood or fluid from the vessels. This leakage can cause damage to the eye and effect your vision, this is why it is very important to attend regular eye check ups. There are different stages of this condition, and depending on the stage treatment may be required to try and minimise future damage to the retina and loss of vision. If we detect any signs of diabetic retinopathy that may be a risk to your vision we will refer you to hospital where they will determine the best course of action.