The most common diabetes related problem
Diabetes can damage the very small blood vessels on the back of the
eye.
The medical name for this damage is Diabetic Retinopathy.
It can lead to loss of vision, even blindness.
Who is at risk?
If you have diabetes, you are at risk of vision loss from Diabetes
Retinopathy.
This is the case regardless of the type of diabetes you have, your
age, or even the control you have over your blood-glucose levels.
Its why everyone who has diabetes should have their eyes checked
regularly when diabetes is first diagnosed, and then at least every
two years after that.
Looking after your eyes
There are three simple steps you need to take to look after your eyes
and help prevent vision loss.
STEP 1:
Have your eyes checked regularly to pick up early signs
of damage so it can be treated before vision loss occurs.
STEP 2: Control your blood-glucose levels and make sure your diet
is low in fat.
STEP 3: If your vision has been affected, seek treatment to stop
it from getting worse.
Who can test your eyes?
Your doctor may conduct the test themselves, ask you to visit an
optometrist, or refer you to a specialist.
The importance of early detection
If the damage is detected before it has affected your sight,
treatment can prevent vision loss.
Where vision loss has already occurred, treatment can only stop it
from getting worse.
How Diabetic Retinopathy affects your vision
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