Diabetes and your eyes

Why eye screening matters

High blood sugar can weaken retinal blood vessels, causing them to leak or grow abnormally. This is diabetic retinopathy. It is a leading cause of sight loss in working-age adults, yet early changes are treatable if caught in time. Screening uses photographs of the retina to spot changes before symptoms appear.

How often to attend

WHO and NHS guidance emphasise annual screening for most people with diabetes once they reach the eligible age.

• 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 diabetes and blood pressure well controlled between appointments

What happens at screening

Screening is not the same as a glasses test. Drops may dilate your pupils so cameras can photograph the retina. Results are graded and you are told if referral to a hospital eye clinic is needed. Treatment may include laser, injections or closer monitoring.

Warning signs between screens

Attend screening even when vision feels normal, but seek urgent advice for sudden vision loss, many new floaters, or a curtain across vision. These are not typical screening findings and need immediate assessment.