Answer
Can diabetes affect your eyes?
Medically reviewed by Mr Mohamed Mohyudin · Last reviewed 2026-07-06 · How review works
Do not wait for screening if
- Sudden vision loss or a sudden drop in vision — seek emergency eye care now
- A shower of new floaters or new flashes of light — same-day assessment
- A dark shadow or curtain across your vision — same-day assessment
- These are emergencies, not something to raise at your next routine screening
How diabetes affects the eyes
High blood sugar weakens the small blood vessels in the retina, which can leak fluid or bleed, or trigger abnormal new vessels — this is diabetic retinopathy. Fluid collecting at the macula, the part responsible for sharp central vision, blurs reading and faces. Damage often begins years before any symptom appears.
Screening intervals
These match our diabetes and eyes guide:
- Type 1 diabetes: from age 12 (or earlier if advised), then yearly
- Type 2 diabetes: from diagnosis, then yearly
- More frequent review if changes are found or pregnancy is planned
- Keep blood sugar and blood pressure well controlled between appointments
Why attend when vision feels normal
Screening photographs the retina and spots changes before you notice anything, when treatment is most effective. Skipping screening because you see fine is the main avoidable risk — by the time vision blurs, the disease is usually more advanced.
What happens at screening
Screening is not a glasses test. Drops may widen your pupils so a camera can photograph the retina. The images are graded, and you are told whether you need referral to a hospital eye clinic or simply re-screening in a year.
Frequently asked questions
Can diabetes make you blind?
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of sight loss in working-age adults, but regular screening and good control of blood sugar and blood pressure make severe sight loss largely preventable.
My vision is fine — do I still need screening?
Yes. Early retinopathy causes no symptoms, and treatment works best before vision is affected. Attend every year even when you see well.
Does type 2 diabetes need screening from diagnosis?
Yes. Retinal changes may already be present when type 2 diabetes is diagnosed, so screening starts immediately and then continues yearly.
What symptoms between screenings are urgent?
Sudden vision loss, many new floaters, new flashes, or a curtain across your vision need same-day care — do not wait for your next screening appointment.
Trusted sources
This page reflects established clinical guidance. For further reading, consult these authoritative eye-health organisations: