Diabetic Retinopathy

Will I go blind from diabetes?

Ninety eight per cent of severe vision loss resulting from diabetic retinopathy can be prevented through early detection and treatment. The key to preventing sight loss if you have diabetes is to have regular eye tests as directed by your eye health professional. It is also important to control your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

My diabetes is very mild, only needing diet control. Do I still need my eyes checked?

Yes. The risk is only slightly reduced in people with diet control alone. Your diabetes may also have been present for longer than you realise, which could increase your chances of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Can I still develop diabetic retinopathy if my diabetic control is very good?

Yes, but good blood sugar levels will reduce your risk considerably. Blood pressure and cholesterol also contribute.

Why does my vision fluctuate a lot?

These changes could be due to diabetic retinopathy or may result from changes to the blood sugar content of the lens in the eye. Lens changes may not cause permanent damage but are an indication of poor eye health.

Is there any point putting in effort into diabetic control if I already have diabetic retinopathy?

Yes. There is strong evidence that progression can be slowed by 50 per cent, particularly in mild and moderate diabetic retinopathy. Good control may also slow progression of other diabetic effects such as kidney damage and ensure surgical procedures such as cataract surgery are not delayed.

For more information visit the Diabetes Australia—Victoria website.