14/10/2025
🌍👁️ Today is World Diabetes Day, so let’s shine a light on how diabetes can impact your eyes and vision — and why regular eye checks matter. 👀✨
Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body handles glucose (sugar) in your blood. High blood sugar levels can harm the blood vessels in the body. This includes the ones at the back of your eye (retina) which is why regular eye examinations are important for people who have been diagnosed with diabetes. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, you should have an eye check immediately and at least every 1-2 years.
Two common eye conditions associated with diabetes are diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can become leaky, resulting in haemorrhages or inflammation of the retina.
Another condition linked to diabetes is diabetic macular edema (DME). The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. DME occurs when fluid leaks into the macula, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Because DME affects the macula and central vision, timely detection and treatment is crucial to maximise the chances of preserving or improving vision.
Findings of diabetic retinopathy are also an indicator that your overall blood sugar levels may not be adequately controlled and there may be similar damage to blood vessels in other parts of your body. Your optometrist will always send a report to your GP following your eye examination so that they can reassess your blood sugar levels and alter your treatment plan if needed.
Diabetes-related eye conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. This is why we recommend regular eye examinations, so any changes can be detected early when they're most treatable.
If you have diabetes and notice a change in your vision, see your eyecare provider immediately.