What it is
Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol under control lowers the risk and slows it down.
Early changes only need monitoring. More advanced changes can be treated with laser, eye injections or surgery.
Common signs
- Usually none in the early stages
- Blurred or patchy vision
- Gradually worsening vision
- Sudden floaters or loss of vision in advanced stages
How it is usually diagnosed
- Diabetic eye screening with photos of the retina
- Eye examination with dilating drops
- OCT scan of the retina
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Eye screening results and grades, with dates
- Ophthalmology letters
- Laser or injection treatment dates
- HbA1c and blood pressure results
Questions to ask your doctor
- What stage is my retinopathy?
- How often do I need screening or check-ups?
- Which treatment would protect my sight?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Sudden loss of vision, a shower of floaters, or a dark shadow across your vision: get same-day help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.