What diabetic retinopathy is
Over time, high blood sugar can weaken the small blood vessels of the retina. They may leak fluid or blood, or become blocked. When fluid collects in the macula — the small central area we use for reading and recognising faces — it is called diabetic macular oedema, and vision can blur. In more advanced disease, fragile new vessels can grow and bleed into the eye. [R11]
How often should you have your eyes checked?
If you have diabetes, have a full dilated eye examination at least once a year — more often if changes are already present. If you have diabetes and become pregnant, have an eye check as soon as you can. [R11] Your ophthalmologist will set the right schedule for you.
What the check-up involves
- Vision and eye-pressure checks.
- Drops to widen your pupils, and a careful examination of the retina.
- Photographs of the retina.
- A scan of the retina (OCT) to look for swelling at the macula.
- Fluorescein angiography — a dye test that shows leaking vessels — only when needed.
Treatment, when it's needed
Not everyone with retinal changes needs treatment straight away; sometimes careful monitoring and good control of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol is the right plan. When treatment is needed, it may include injections of medicine into the eye (anti-VEGF) to reduce swelling and abnormal vessels, laser treatment, or, in advanced cases with bleeding or scarring, an operation called vitrectomy. [R11]
When surgery on the retina is needed, we refer you to a vitreoretinal surgeon and continue your care with us afterwards.
What you can do
- Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in the range your doctor advises.
- Take your medicines regularly and don't smoke.
- Keep every eye appointment — even when your sight seems fine.
When to get help urgently
Get an eye check the same day if you notice sudden blurring, a sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain or shadow across your vision. [R11]
Who treats diabetes and the retina here
Dr. Praveen Kumar
Consultant Ophthalmologist
Questions patients ask
My eyesight is fine. Do I still need a check?
Yes. Diabetic retinopathy usually causes no symptoms early on. A check can find changes before they affect your sight. [R11]
Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?
Treatment can often stabilise it and reduce swelling, and some changes improve. Lost sight is not always recovered, which is why early detection matters. [R11]
Are eye injections painful?
The eye is numbed first. Most people feel pressure rather than pain. Your doctor will explain what to expect.
References
[R3] National Eye Institute (NEI/NIH), Diabetic Retinopathy Guidelines; [R11] American Academy of Ophthalmology, Diabetic Retinopathy Preferred Practice Pattern (2019) (https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/diabetic-retinopathy).