Diabetes is the epidemic of the 21st century and the biggest challenge confronting Australia’s health system. Around 1.8 million Australians have diabetes, with 280 Australians developing diabetes every day. Diabetes is the leading cause of preventable blindness in Australia with nearly half of all diabetic Australians not attending regular diabetic eye checks.

Anyone with a form of diabetes (including gestational diabetes!) can develop diabetic retinopathy (DR). DR is caused by high blood sugar damaging blood vessels in the retina (a light-sensitive layer of cells in the back of the eye). Damaged blood vessels can swell and leak, causing blurry vision or stopping blood flow. If you notice any changes to your vision, contact your doctor.

Some symptoms of DR include:

• Blurred, distorted or patchy vision that is not corrected with prescription glasses
• Problems with balance, watching TV, reading or recognising people
• Sensitivity to glare
• Difficulty seeing in dim light or at night

To help look after your eyes and prevent vision loss, people with diabetes should:

• Have their eyes checked when diabetes is first diagnosed, and then regularly checked every two years
• Maintain their blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• If vision has been affected, seek an opinion and treatment from an eye specialist to prevent it from getting worse

The good news is that most vision loss from diabetes can be prevented with regular eye checks and early treatment. The earlier treatment can commence, the better the result will be.

Keep Sight is a fantastic website that you can register with to receive reminders when you are next due for your eye check!