eye care support

Diabetes and Your Eyes

More than one million Australians live with diabetes, and many will develop changes in their eyes over time.

Diabetes can cause the focusing ability of the eye to fluctuate, leading to temporary blurred vision. This is sometimes how diabetes is first detected. These changes often settle once blood-sugar levels are well controlled.

After diabetes has been present for several years, changes may occur in the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, known as diabetic retinopathy. Your optometrist checks for these changes during an eye examination.

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Two main types

Background (simple) retinopathy

This early stage rarely affects vision. Occasionally, swelling in the retina can cause hazy or distorted vision.

Proliferative retinopathy

This more serious form involves the growth of fragile new blood vessels. It requires early treatment to reduce the risk of significant vision loss.

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Regular eye examinations are essential, as early detection gives the best chance of protecting vision.

Diabetes FAQs

Regular eye examinations are the most effective way to detect changes early.

People with diabetes should have a comprehensive eye examination every year and those with diagnosed retinopathy may need more frequent reviews.

  • Double vision: A rare but distressing complication. It is usually temporary but may last for several months. Your optometrist can help manage symptoms.
  • Glaucoma: People with diabetes have a slightly higher risk of glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve. Regular eye examinations help detect it early.
  • Cataracts: Cataracts tend to develop earlier in people with diabetes. They cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens and can be detected during routine eye checks.

For simple retinopathy, your optometrist may show you how to monitor this at home and will refer you if treatment is needed.

If proliferative retinopathy is detected, your optometrist will refer you to an eye specialist for further assessment and likely laser treatment.

The risk of retinopathy increases with the duration of diabetes and with poor blood-sugar control.