Eye problems are among the most significant complications of diabetes, and eye problems from diabetes are the most common cause of blindness in people of working age in the UK.
Diabetes can affect the eyes in a number of ways;
If undetected and untreated it can cause noticeable changes to your eye sight.
The most damaging condition occurs when the fine network of blood vessels in the retina – the light-sensitive inner lining of the back of the eye – leak fluid/blood. This is known as diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetes increases the occurrence of cataracts and progress more rapidly in people with diabetes than in other people
How can your optometrist help?
Optometrists play a role in detecting and monitoring diabetic eye disease. If the optometrist suspects you may have diabetes, they will refer you to a doctor for medical advice. Moreover, if any serious diabetic eye disease is found, referral to an ophthalmologist is arranged for treatment. However, most sight loss from diabetic eye disease can be prevented if detected early and treated.
Hence, regular eye examinations are advised and at Makis Eleftheriou Opticians we will also perform retinal photography at every visit. As these images can be compared year on year, even the smallest changes are discovered earlier, which in turn allows early intervention and a better outcome.Retinal photos are invaluable in helping to detect and monitor any changes.
Serious eye problems are less likely if the diabetes is well controlled or in its early stages. If problems are detected and treated early, most sight loss from diabetic eye disease can be prevented.
Remember, however, that if your vision is getting worse, this does not necessarily mean you have diabetic retinopathy. It may simply be a problem that can be corrected with glasses.
So, if you notice any problems with your eyesight you should see your optometrist for advice.
What can be done?
Most sight-threatening diabetic problems can be prevented by laser treatment if it is carried out early enough. It is important to realise, however, that laser treatment aims to save the sight you have – not to make it better. The laser, a beam of high intensity light, can be focused with extreme precision to seal the blood vessels that are leaking fluid into the retina. If new blood vessels grow, more extensive laser treatment may be needed.
