Eyesight Need-to-know facts

At least 60 per cent of people diagnosed with diabetes get eye disease within 20 years. Here’s how you can protect your eyes

1

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working-age Australians. Diabetes can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy, the most common and most serious diabetic eye disease, which can result in permanent vision loss if left untreated. Diabetes also makes developing cataracts or glaucoma twice as likely, compared to those people without diabetes.

2

High BGLs can cause changes to the shape of the eye’s lens. This can temporarily cause blurry vision – something which usually disappears when BGLs are stabilised. But, when BGLs are unstable or remain persistently high, it increases the risk of more serious eye problems, often by causing damage to the eyes’ blood vessels.

3

Diabetes-related eye complications don’t usually cause signs or symptoms until the problem is quite advanced. These include blurry vision, sensitivity to light and glare, seeing floaters, flashes or halos around lights, having distortion or holes in your vision, or needing brighter light to read. If you note changes to your vision, tell your doctor ASAP.

4

64 per cent of Aussies with diabetes do not know it can affect their eyes. Not only are those with diabetes at risk of diabetic eye disease, it’s important to let your optometrist know your diagnosis so they can monitor your eyes closely.

5

98 per cent of serious vision loss from diabetes can be prevented. This can be achieved with regular eye checks and early treatment. While this can’t generally restore vision once it’s lost, most complications can be treated if detected early.

6

One in two people with diabetes don’t have their eyes checked frequently. As well as having an eye examination when first diagnosed, you should keep having them at least once every two years (or more often if your doctor advises). Sign up to KeepSight.org.au for reminders and eye health information.

7

Besides eye checks, there are other things you can do. Keep your BGLs, HbA1c, blood pressure and cholesterol at recommended levels, maintain a healthy lifestyle, take medications as prescribed and have regular health checks suggested by your doctor. And, last, but not least, if you smoke, stop! ■