𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗲𝘆𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝘁?

Yes. In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy often causes no blurred vision, pain or obvious change in day-to-day eyesight.

Diabetes can gradually damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. These early changes may be visible during a retinal examination even while reading, driving and distance vision still seem completely normal.

That is why a diabetic eye check is important even when there is nothing wrong with your vision. Diabetes Australia recommends an eye examination when diabetes is first diagnosed and then at least every two years, or more often if advised by your eye-care professional.

If changes are found, the timing of future checks depends on their severity. Treatment is not always needed immediately, but monitoring allows diabetic retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema to be identified and managed before more vision is affected.

If you have diabetes and cannot remember your last retinal examination, it may be time to arrange one. New blurred, distorted or patchy vision should be assessed rather than waiting for the next routine check.

Eye and Retina Specialists, Sydney

Green Square, Waterloo

www.eyeandretina.com.au

#DiabeticRetinopathy #DiabetesEyeHealth #EyeHealth