Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels in the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, these vessels may become damaged, leak fluid or bleed, potentially causing diabetic retinopathy, macular swelling and vision loss.
The risk increases the longer you have diabetes, particularly when blood glucose, blood pressure or cholesterol are not well controlled. Regular diabetic eye examinations are important because early retinal changes often cause no noticeable symptoms.
What Does a Diabetic Eye Examination Involve?
Your examination includes a comprehensive assessment of your vision and eye health.
Eye drops are generally used to temporarily dilate your pupils so your optometrist can examine the retina more thoroughly. Retinal photography may also be performed to document and monitor any changes.
At Westmead Eyes, OCT imaging of the macula is routinely included in our diabetic eye assessments. OCT provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retinal layers and helps identify subtle swelling or structural changes that may not be visible during a standard examination.
A report of your findings can be provided to your GP, endocrinologist or treating specialist to support coordinated diabetes care.
What Can Diabetes Do to the Retina?
Diabetic retinopathy can cause small areas of bleeding, leaking blood vessels and deposits within the retina. These changes may be present before a person notices any vision symptoms.
Before Your Appointment
Dilating drops can temporarily cause blurred near vision and increased sensitivity to light.
We recommend:
- bringing sunglasses
- allowing extra time for the drops to take effect
- avoiding driving for several hours after the examination
- arranging for someone to accompany you or collect you where possible
The effects vary between patients and may last for several hours.
What Might I Notice if Diabetes Is Affecting My Eyes?
Diabetic eye disease may cause no symptoms in its early stages. This is why regular examinations remain important even when your vision appears normal.
Possible symptoms can include:
- blurred or fluctuating vision
- distorted or patchy vision
- increased glare sensitivity
- new floaters
- colours appearing faded
- dark, missing or blurred areas of vision
- gradual or sudden reduction in vision
Any sudden change in vision, new floaters, flashes or a dark area in your vision should be assessed promptly.