Dilated retinal examination
The retina is examined for leaking vessels, bleeding and abnormal new vessels.
Medical retina
Diabetic Eye Disease
Protecting sight through early detection and treatment of diabetes-related retinal changes.
Specialist care · Advanced technology
Diabetic eye disease
Understanding the condition
Clear information for confident decisions.
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels of the retina. Early disease may not cause noticeable symptoms, making regular examination important.
01Affected areaRetinal blood vessels and macula
02Early stageMay cause no noticeable symptoms
03Key monitoringRegular dilated retinal checks
04Treatment goalProtect sight and reduce progression
Symptoms
What you may notice.
Symptoms vary between people, and some conditions cause no early warning. A specialist examination is needed for an accurate diagnosis.
01
Blurred or fluctuating vision
02
Difficulty reading or recognising fine detail
03
Dark spots, strings or floaters
04
Colours appearing faded or washed out
05
Sudden loss of part or all of the vision
Causes and risk factors
What may increase your risk.
Having a risk factor does not confirm the condition. Your history and examination are considered together.
01Longer duration of diabetes
02Blood glucose above the agreed target range
03High blood pressure or cholesterol
04Kidney disease, pregnancy or smoking
Assessment01 02 03 04
How it is diagnosed.
OCT scan
Cross-sectional imaging measures swelling and structural change at the macula.
Retinal photography
Detailed photographs document the extent of retinopathy and changes over time.
Fluorescein angiography
When required, dye imaging maps leakage, circulation and areas needing treatment.
Aftercare
Recovery and follow-up.
01
Keep all scheduled retinal reviews even when vision feels unchanged.
02
Use prescribed drops or medicines exactly as directed after treatment.
03
Expect temporary blur after dilation, injection or laser and follow driving advice.
04
Report increasing pain, redness, discharge or worsening vision promptly.
Common questions
Answers with clarity.
These answers are general. Your own care plan may differ after examination.
01Can diabetic eye disease exist without symptoms?+
Yes. Sight can feel normal while early retinal changes are present, which is why regular screening matters.
02Will better glucose control reverse existing damage?+
It may reduce further risk but does not always reverse established retinal change; eye-specific treatment may still be needed.
03Are injections always required?+
No. Treatment depends on the type, location and severity of disease and may include observation, injections, laser or surgery.
04How often should my eyes be checked?+
Your interval depends on retinal findings, diabetes control and other health factors. The specialist will recommend a schedule.