Diabetic Retinopathy(eye disease of the retina) can occur regardless of the type of diabetes you have, your age, or even the control you have over your blood-glucose levels. It’s best to have regular eye examinations so that changes can be detected and treated early. People who have diabetes should have their eyes checked from when diabetes is first diagnosed, and then regularly checked every two years.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
If you notice any changes in your vision you should contact your optometrist. Some examples of symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy include:
- Blurred, distorted or patchy vision that can’t be corrected with prescription glasses
- Problems with balance, reading, watching television and recognising people
- Being overly sensitive to glare
- Difficulty seeing at night.
In the early stages of Diabetic Retinopathy there may be no symptoms and the disease may not be diagnosed until it is advanced.
Double vision
This is a rare complication of diabetes. Double vision is usually temporary but it may last for a few months. An optometrist can help treat it while it has effect. Diabetes is not the only cause of double vision.
Looking after your eyes
To look after your eyes and help prevent vision loss:
- Have your eyes checked regularly, at least every two years, to pick up early signs of damage
- Control your blood glucose levels.
- Maintain a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- If your vision has been affected, seek treatment early to stop it from getting worse.
