All people with diabetes should have regular eye checks. Diabetes can cause loss ofvision and blindness which is preventable if detected early. When was your last check?
Diabetes damages the very fine blood vessels in the retina (diabetic retinopathy). The retina is a thin layer lining the inner surface of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy aff ects vision in two ways:
- Macular oedema: leakage of fl uid and swelling at the centre of vision (macula)
- Proliferative retinopathy: growth of new and fragile blood vessels which can bleed easily and cause cloudy vision and scarring
Diabetes also increases the risk of cataracts (clouding of the lens), reducing vision further.
Who is at risk of retinopathy?
Everyone with diabetes. The longer you have diabetes, the greater the risk. After 15 years, about 3 out of 4 diabetics have some retinopathy.
The risk is increased further by:
- Poor control of diabetes (aim for HbA1c < 7)
- Raised blood pressure (aim for ‘systolic’ BP <130)
- Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
Have your eyes checked regularly All people with diabetes should have their eyes examined at least every 2 years.
Don’t wait until you detect a problem as retinopathy can be quite advanced before you notice any deterioration. Also see your doctor without delay if your vision deteriorates.
Treatment with laser therapy
Advanced retinopathy is treated with laser therapy, which involves using a concentrated beam of light to make small burns in the retina. Laser therapy cannot restore lost vision, but can prevent further damage.
Laser treatment is usually well tolerated but can cause some discomfort or even pain, temporary blurring of vision and increased glare. Speak to your GP about getting an eye check.
For more information go to www.nhmrc.gov.au . Search: diabetic retinopathy
