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Most people will be unaware of eye damage unless they are
tested. Screening for diabetic retinopathy is recommended
in all patients with diabetes. Several analyses have assessed
screening programmes, and all concur that screening saves
sight and is cost effective.
In addition, all patients with diabetes should have a comprehensive
eye examination with an ophthalmologist at least once a year.
In some countries, optometrists can examine and evaluate patients
for diabetic retinopathy.
In some instances, such as during pregnancy, more regular
eye examinations should be carried out. If the patient already
has some form of diabetic retinopathy or macular oedema, they
should also be seen more regularly. For these patients, the
frequency of the examinations will depend on the type of retinopathy
they have.
Patients can monitor their own sight using an Amsler grid
– distortion of straight lines can indicate macular oedema.
People with diabetes should have their eyes checked regularly
by their diabetologist. Any individual with sight-threatening
retinopathy should be referred to an ophthalmologist immediately.
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