[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1957},["ShallowReactive",2],{"microcopies":3,"page-data-/eye-health/eye-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy":9},{"of":4,"jumpToSection":5,"home":6,"availableAt":7,"accessedUpdated":8},"of","Jump to section","Home","Available at","Accessed",{"queryData":10,"breadcrumbTrail":1956},{"contentPage":11},{"entryTitle":12,"pageTitle":13,"seoMetaData":14,"topSection":18,"bottomSection":26,"anchors":38,"mainSectionCollection":81},"NZ - Eye Health - Eye Conditions - Diabetic Retinopathy","What is Diabetic Retinopathy? Symptoms & Screening",{"metaDescription":15,"indexed":16,"follow":16,"metaKeywords":17,"updatedForProjectAlphabet":16},"Diabetic retinopathy is a condition caused by diabetes that affects the small blood vessels in the eye, damaging the retina, which is vital for sight.",true,null,{"__typename":19,"sys":20,"button":17,"title":22,"subtitle":23,"theme":24,"heroHeightVersion":25},"HeroBanner",{"id":21},"2WFErFSbrFllYXaz09BaY6","Diabetic retinopathy","A common complication of diabetes that affects your eyes. Here’s what it means, what to look out for, and how to protect your sight.","Ellipse","Condensed",{"__typename":27,"sys":28,"title":30,"body":31,"buttonsCollection":32},"FullWidthBannerFooter",{"id":29},"51o4LDgfgwIbWVUJ0kcQ8X","Let's get your vision sorted","Noticed a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","/book/location",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66,71,76],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"Book an Appointment",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48},"About",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"hmF8y85t3LK9oCsI50B4z",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Symptoms ",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"IX2VuacQgiijPk3zz58hK",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Types",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"3TUaTVE9mWaC6S7a08bNEn",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Stages",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"22Dkn8Fpijgx8zbe7TvMSA",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68},"Causes",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"6eJNrvJsgSNUUNCqgffqd1",{"anchorLabel":72,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":73},"Treatment",{"sys":74},{"id":75},"3Kpkj2uRhIQoNHtNgkwWMj",{"anchorLabel":77,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":78},"Prevention",{"sys":79},{"id":80},"55zikH572nxbrxTsqJ92TG",{"items":82},[83,139,193,367,455,553,576,619,756,899,967,1115,1239,1318,1624,1638,1669,1710,1906,1936],{"__typename":84,"sys":85,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":87},"ContentTypeRichText",{"id":50},"Mono White",{"json":88,"links":136},{"data":89,"content":90,"nodeType":135},{},[91,100,108,115],{"data":92,"content":93,"nodeType":99},{},[94],{"data":95,"marks":96,"value":97,"nodeType":98},{},[],"What is diabetic retinopathy?","text","heading-2",{"data":101,"content":102,"nodeType":107},{},[103],{"data":104,"marks":105,"value":106,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can happen if you have diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar can harm the small blood vessels at the back of the eye, called the retina. This can affect vision. ","paragraph",{"data":109,"content":110,"nodeType":107},{},[111],{"data":112,"marks":113,"value":114,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Early on, you might not notice changes, but without treatment, it can get worse and may cause permanent sight loss. Your optometrist (sometimes called an optician) will be able to spot signs of diabetic retinopathy during an eye test – and treatment is available if needed.  ",{"data":116,"content":117,"nodeType":107},{},[118,122,131],{"data":119,"marks":120,"value":121,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have lived with diabetes for years, ",{"data":123,"content":125,"nodeType":130},{"uri":124},"/eye-tests",[126],{"data":127,"marks":128,"value":129,"nodeType":98},{},[],"eye tests","hyperlink",{"data":132,"marks":133,"value":134,"nodeType":98},{},[]," help protect your sight. ","document",{"entries":137},{"block":138},[],{"__typename":140,"sys":141,"title":143,"subtitle":144,"hotspotConfigurator":145,"hotspotImageReference":191},"MediaHotspotCarousel",{"id":142},"79z4ay5m9nLHVTtrJZK0wl","Diabetic retinopathy explained","Here's how it happens.",{"assetId":146,"hotspots":147},"350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO",[148,161,171,181],{"x":149,"y":150,"id":151,"label":152,"theme":153,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":154,"naturalX":155,"naturalY":156,"percentageX":157,"percentageY":158,"appImageWidth":159,"appImageHeight":160},439.5,234.99999999999997,"rtL0rdDbkwyizKTeIrEOG","Retina","Light","The light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye where images are focused. High blood sugar harms small vessels in the retina. ",512,273.8653846153846,50,45.192307692307686,879,520,{"x":162,"y":163,"id":164,"label":165,"theme":153,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":166,"naturalX":167,"naturalY":168,"percentageX":169,"percentageY":170,"appImageWidth":159,"appImageHeight":160},464.49999999999994,334.0000000000001,"F3wPf6nREcTtFzaLqo8de","Damaged blood vessels ","These can swell, leak or become blocked. This reduces oxygen and may blur or darken vision. ",541.1240045506256,389.23846153846165,52.84414106939703,64.23076923076924,{"x":172,"y":173,"id":174,"label":175,"theme":153,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":176,"naturalX":177,"naturalY":178,"percentageX":179,"percentageY":180,"appImageWidth":159,"appImageHeight":160},555.5000000000001,266,"AL5kLn8NP3sKKxRz0DDbu","Macular oedema ","Swelling in the macula, which you use to see fine details. It’s a common cause of vision trouble with diabetic retinopathy. ",647.1353811149035,309.9923076923077,63.19681456200229,51.153846153846146,{"x":182,"y":183,"id":184,"label":185,"theme":153,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":186,"naturalX":187,"naturalY":188,"percentageX":189,"percentageY":190,"appImageWidth":159,"appImageHeight":160},388.5,174,"6zMbAX_guM2rtVleGeZSW","Vitreous haemorrhage ","Fragile new vessels can bleed into the vitreous, the clear gel in the eye. This may cause sudden floaters or even vision loss. ",452.5870307167236,202.77692307692308,44.19795221843004,33.46153846153847,{"url":192},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO/7e4782176839acfa37700a5ed7f9b183/blind-spot-pupil-reflex-2zejrof6swffvdyi15fr40.jpg",{"__typename":84,"sys":194,"theme":195,"genericTextComponent":196},{"id":55},"Cool Blue",{"json":197,"links":364},{"nodeType":135,"data":198,"content":199},{},[200,213,220,227,346],{"nodeType":99,"data":201,"content":202},{},[203,209],{"nodeType":98,"value":204,"marks":205,"data":208},"What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?",[206],{"type":207},"bold",{},{"nodeType":98,"value":210,"marks":211,"data":212}," ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":214,"content":215},{},[216],{"nodeType":98,"value":217,"marks":218,"data":219},"In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy might not affect your sight at all. That’s why many people don’t realise there’s a problem until the condition has progressed. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":221,"content":222},{},[223],{"nodeType":98,"value":224,"marks":225,"data":226},"What does diabetic retinopathy look like? When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on which part of the eye is affected. You might notice: ",[],{},{"nodeType":228,"data":229,"content":230},"unordered-list",{},[231,254,275,285,306,316,326,336],{"nodeType":232,"data":233,"content":234},"list-item",{},[235],{"nodeType":107,"data":236,"content":237},{},[238,242,250],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":240,"data":241},"",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":243,"content":245},{"uri":244},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/blurry-vision",[246],{"nodeType":98,"value":247,"marks":248,"data":249},"Blurred Vision",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":251,"marks":252,"data":253},"            ",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":255,"content":256},{},[257],{"nodeType":107,"data":258,"content":259},{},[260,263,271],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":261,"data":262},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":264,"content":266},{"uri":265},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/eye-floaters",[267],{"nodeType":98,"value":268,"marks":269,"data":270},"Floaters and flashes",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":272,"marks":273,"data":274},"        ",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":276,"content":277},{},[278],{"nodeType":107,"data":279,"content":280},{},[281],{"nodeType":98,"value":282,"marks":283,"data":284},"Patchy or missing areas in your vision",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":286,"content":287},{},[288],{"nodeType":107,"data":289,"content":290},{},[291,294,302],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":292,"data":293},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":295,"content":297},{"uri":296},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/cloudy-vision",[298],{"nodeType":98,"value":299,"marks":300,"data":301},"Cloudy vision",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":303,"marks":304,"data":305},"              ",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":307,"content":308},{},[309],{"nodeType":107,"data":310,"content":311},{},[312],{"nodeType":98,"value":313,"marks":314,"data":315},"Tunnel vision, where your side vision starts to narrow",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":317,"content":318},{},[319],{"nodeType":107,"data":320,"content":321},{},[322],{"nodeType":98,"value":323,"marks":324,"data":325},"Difficulty seeing at night",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":327,"content":328},{},[329],{"nodeType":107,"data":330,"content":331},{},[332],{"nodeType":98,"value":333,"marks":334,"data":335},"Halos around lights",[],{},{"nodeType":232,"data":337,"content":338},{},[339],{"nodeType":107,"data":340,"content":341},{},[342],{"nodeType":98,"value":343,"marks":344,"data":345},"Faded colours symptoms may come and go or get worse over time.",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":347,"content":348},{},[349,353,360],{"nodeType":98,"value":350,"marks":351,"data":352},"In severe cases, sudden vision loss can happen, often from bleeding or retinal detachment. This is rare but serious.\nIf you notice these changes, ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":354,"content":355},{"uri":36},[356],{"nodeType":98,"value":357,"marks":358,"data":359},"book a diabetes eye check ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":361,"marks":362,"data":363},"as soon as you can. Early treatment can help.",[],{},{"entries":365},{"block":366},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":368,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":369},{"id":60},{"json":370,"links":452},{"nodeType":135,"data":371,"content":372},{},[373,380,387,395,413,420,438,445],{"nodeType":99,"data":374,"content":375},{},[376],{"nodeType":98,"value":377,"marks":378,"data":379},"Types of diabetic retinopathy",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":381,"content":382},{},[383],{"nodeType":98,"value":384,"marks":385,"data":386},"Diabetic retinopathy is often divided into two main types, based on how advanced it is and the changes in the eye.",[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":389,"content":390},"heading-3",{},[391],{"nodeType":98,"value":392,"marks":393,"data":394},"Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR)",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":396,"content":397},{},[398,402,409],{"nodeType":98,"value":399,"marks":400,"data":401},"The early stage. Tiny blood vessels in the retina are damaged and leak fluid or blood. Mild cases affect a few vessels. Moderate to severe cases cause more swelling and damage.  \n \nNPDR may have no symptoms but can worsen without regular ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":403,"content":404},{"uri":124},[405],{"nodeType":98,"value":406,"marks":407,"data":408},"eye checks",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":410,"marks":411,"data":412},".",[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":414,"content":415},{},[416],{"nodeType":98,"value":417,"marks":418,"data":419},"Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR)",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":421,"content":422},{},[423,427,435],{"nodeType":98,"value":424,"marks":425,"data":426},"The advanced stage. The body grows new fragile vessels that leak easily. This can cause scar tissue and sometimes ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":428,"content":430},{"uri":429},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/retinal-detachment",[431],{"nodeType":98,"value":432,"marks":433,"data":434},"retinal detachment",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":410,"marks":436,"data":437},[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":439,"content":440},{},[441],{"nodeType":98,"value":442,"marks":443,"data":444},"Diabetic Maculopathy",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":446,"content":447},{},[448],{"nodeType":98,"value":449,"marks":450,"data":451},"Without treatment, PDR can lead to serious sight loss. Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) can happen at any stage. Fluid builds in the macula, the area used for sharp vision. It can blur vision and needs monitoring or treatment.  ",[],{},{"entries":453},{"block":454},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":456,"theme":195,"genericTextComponent":457},{"id":65},{"json":458,"links":550},{"data":459,"content":460,"nodeType":135},{},[461,468,475,483,501,508,515,522,529,536,543],{"data":462,"content":463,"nodeType":99},{},[464],{"data":465,"marks":466,"value":467,"nodeType":98},{},[],"What are the stages of diabetic retinopathy?",{"data":469,"content":470,"nodeType":107},{},[471],{"data":472,"marks":473,"value":474,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Diabetic retinopathy builds up over time. The longer you have diabetes and the harder it is to control blood sugar, the more likely it will progress.  ",{"data":476,"content":477,"nodeType":482},{},[478],{"data":479,"marks":480,"value":481,"nodeType":98},{},[],"1. Background retinopathy ","heading-4",{"data":484,"content":485,"nodeType":107},{},[486,490,497],{"data":487,"marks":488,"value":489,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Earliest stage. Small bulges form in the eye’s blood vessels. You may not notice symptoms, but an ",{"data":491,"content":492,"nodeType":130},{"uri":124},[493],{"data":494,"marks":495,"value":496,"nodeType":98},{},[],"eye test",{"data":498,"marks":499,"value":500,"nodeType":98},{},[]," can detect it.   ",{"data":502,"content":503,"nodeType":482},{},[504],{"data":505,"marks":506,"value":507,"nodeType":98},{},[],"2. Pre-proliferative retinopathy ",{"data":509,"content":510,"nodeType":107},{},[511],{"data":512,"marks":513,"value":514,"nodeType":98},{},[],"More vessels are affected and may block. It often causes no symptoms but needs watching.  ",{"data":516,"content":517,"nodeType":482},{},[518],{"data":519,"marks":520,"value":521,"nodeType":98},{},[],"3. Proliferative retinopathy ",{"data":523,"content":524,"nodeType":107},{},[525],{"data":526,"marks":527,"value":528,"nodeType":98},{},[],"New weak vessels grow and can bleed. This stage has a higher risk of major vision loss.  ",{"data":530,"content":531,"nodeType":482},{},[532],{"data":533,"marks":534,"value":535,"nodeType":98},{},[],"4. Diabetic macular oedema ",{"data":537,"content":538,"nodeType":107},{},[539],{"data":540,"marks":541,"value":542,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Can happen at any stage. Fluid leaks into the macula, causing swelling and blurred vision. ",{"data":544,"content":545,"nodeType":107},{},[546],{"data":547,"marks":548,"value":549,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Regular diabetes eye checks help detect it early. ",{"entries":551},{"block":552},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":554,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":555},{"id":70},{"json":556,"links":573},{"data":557,"content":558,"nodeType":135},{},[559,566],{"data":560,"content":561,"nodeType":99},{},[562],{"data":563,"marks":564,"value":565,"nodeType":98},{},[],"What causes diabetic retinopathy?",{"data":567,"content":568,"nodeType":107},{},[569],{"data":570,"marks":571,"value":572,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar harms the small vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that senses light and sends messages to the brain. Over time, these vessels can swell, leak or block. This cuts oxygen supply to the retina and can affect vision. Poor blood sugar control raises the risk. High blood pressure, cholesterol and years living with diabetes also play a role. ",{"entries":574},{"block":575},[],{"__typename":577,"sys":578,"switchSequenceAtMobile":16,"backgroundTheme":580,"rightColumnCollection":581,"leftColumnCollection":586},"TwoColumnLayout",{"id":579},"2rCkObnPoTZ580L2QtT41R","Blue",{"items":582},[583],{"__typename":584,"altText":17,"videoId":585},"YoutubeVideo","jW0TSsaniFM",{"items":587},[588],{"__typename":84,"sys":589,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":591},{"id":590},"4NxljJDbuuwhbQBGznC2cY",{"json":592,"links":616},{"data":593,"content":594,"nodeType":135},{},[595,602,609],{"data":596,"content":597,"nodeType":388},{},[598],{"data":599,"marks":600,"value":601,"nodeType":98},{},[],"What the experts say about diabetic retinopathy",{"data":603,"content":604,"nodeType":107},{},[605],{"data":606,"marks":607,"value":608,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Our expert optometrists regularly see patients with signs of diabetic retinopathy, often before they’ve noticed anything themselves. Here, one of our optometrists shares how they spot early changes, what happens during an eye test, and how they work with patients to protect their sight. ",{"data":610,"content":611,"nodeType":107},{},[612],{"data":613,"marks":614,"value":615,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Sometimes it’s just about closer monitoring. Other times, it’s helping someone understand what their results mean and referring them for specialist care. Whatever the stage, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. ",{"entries":617},{"block":618},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":620,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":622},{"id":621},"3f82CyITKyUPO7rUqnkEqX",{"json":623,"links":753},{"data":624,"content":625,"nodeType":135},{},[626,633,640,647,733],{"data":627,"content":628,"nodeType":99},{},[629],{"data":630,"marks":631,"value":632,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Who is most at risk of diabetic retinopathy?",{"data":634,"content":635,"nodeType":107},{},[636],{"data":637,"marks":638,"value":639,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Anyone with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, can get diabetic retinopathy. Risk goes up the longer you’ve had diabetes, especially if blood sugar has been hard to manage.  ",{"data":641,"content":642,"nodeType":107},{},[643],{"data":644,"marks":645,"value":646,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Other risk factors include: ",{"data":648,"content":649,"nodeType":228},{},[650,669,684,699,718],{"data":651,"content":652,"nodeType":232},{},[653],{"data":654,"content":655,"nodeType":107},{},[656,661,665],{"data":657,"marks":658,"value":660,"nodeType":98},{},[659],{"type":207},"High blood pressure",{"data":662,"marks":663,"value":664,"nodeType":98},{},[]," ",{"data":666,"marks":667,"value":668,"nodeType":98},{},[],"that puts strain on eye blood vessels",{"data":670,"content":671,"nodeType":232},{},[672],{"data":673,"content":674,"nodeType":107},{},[675,680],{"data":676,"marks":677,"value":679,"nodeType":98},{},[678],{"type":207},"High cholesterol",{"data":681,"marks":682,"value":683,"nodeType":98},{},[]," that reduces oxygen supply",{"data":685,"content":686,"nodeType":232},{},[687],{"data":688,"content":689,"nodeType":107},{},[690,695],{"data":691,"marks":692,"value":694,"nodeType":98},{},[693],{"type":207},"Smoking ",{"data":696,"marks":697,"value":698,"nodeType":98},{},[],"that lowers circulation and increases damage ",{"data":700,"content":701,"nodeType":232},{},[702],{"data":703,"content":704,"nodeType":107},{},[705,710,714],{"data":706,"marks":707,"value":709,"nodeType":98},{},[708],{"type":207},"Pregnancy",{"data":711,"marks":712,"value":713,"nodeType":98},{},[],", ",{"data":715,"marks":716,"value":717,"nodeType":98},{},[],"when hormone changes can increase risk  ",{"data":719,"content":720,"nodeType":232},{},[721],{"data":722,"content":723,"nodeType":107},{},[724,729],{"data":725,"marks":726,"value":728,"nodeType":98},{},[727],{"type":207},"Missing eye checks",{"data":730,"marks":731,"value":732,"nodeType":98},{},[],", as early signs are easy to miss ",{"data":734,"content":735,"nodeType":107},{},[736,740,743,749],{"data":737,"marks":738,"value":739,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Regular diabetes eye checks are important. Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in check and having yearly",{"data":741,"marks":742,"value":664,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":744,"content":745,"nodeType":130},{"uri":124},[746],{"data":747,"marks":748,"value":406,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":750,"marks":751,"value":752,"nodeType":98},{},[]," lowers risk.",{"entries":754},{"block":755},[],{"__typename":577,"sys":757,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":580,"leftColumnCollection":759,"rightColumnCollection":890},{"id":758},"4ZpMKuyBsj5EOS3f2KpdCr",{"items":760},[761],{"__typename":84,"sys":762,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":764},{"id":763},"77NzeR550xPB5ug6f3bB4Y",{"json":765,"links":887},{"nodeType":135,"data":766,"content":767},{},[768,775,792,799,806,825,832,839,846,853,860,867,874,881],{"nodeType":388,"data":769,"content":770},{},[771],{"nodeType":98,"value":772,"marks":773,"data":774},"How is diabetic retinopathy tested and diagnosed?",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":776,"content":777},{},[778,782,788],{"nodeType":98,"value":779,"marks":780,"data":781},"At your ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":783,"content":784},{"uri":124},[785],{"nodeType":98,"value":496,"marks":786,"data":787},[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":789,"marks":790,"data":791},", your optometrist will ask about your eye health, any changes, and how your diabetes is being managed. This helps us check your risk and choose the right tests.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":793,"content":794},{},[795],{"nodeType":98,"value":796,"marks":797,"data":798},"We’ll do several painless checks for early signs: ",[],{},{"nodeType":482,"data":800,"content":801},{},[802],{"nodeType":98,"value":803,"marks":804,"data":805},"Visual acuity test ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":807,"content":808},{},[809,813,821],{"nodeType":98,"value":810,"marks":811,"data":812},"You’ll read a  ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":814,"content":816},{"uri":815},"/help-and-faqs/what-is-a-snellen-chart",[817],{"nodeType":98,"value":818,"marks":819,"data":820},"letter chart",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":822,"marks":823,"data":824}," letter chart so we can check your vision and look for changes.",[],{},{"nodeType":482,"data":826,"content":827},{},[828],{"nodeType":98,"value":829,"marks":830,"data":831},"Tonometry ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":833,"content":834},{},[835],{"nodeType":98,"value":836,"marks":837,"data":838},"Measures the pressure in your eye. ",[],{},{"nodeType":482,"data":840,"content":841},{},[842],{"nodeType":98,"value":843,"marks":844,"data":845},"Dilated eye exam ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":847,"content":848},{},[849],{"nodeType":98,"value":850,"marks":851,"data":852},"Drops may be used to widen your pupils so we can clearly see the retina and optic nerve. ",[],{},{"nodeType":482,"data":854,"content":855},{},[856],{"nodeType":98,"value":857,"marks":858,"data":859},"Digital retinal photography ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":861,"content":862},{},[863],{"nodeType":98,"value":864,"marks":865,"data":866},"A quick scan takes detailed pictures of the back of your eye. ",[],{},{"nodeType":482,"data":868,"content":869},{},[870],{"nodeType":98,"value":871,"marks":872,"data":873},"OCT scan ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":875,"content":876},{},[877],{"nodeType":98,"value":878,"marks":879,"data":880},"Creates 3D images of the retina to check for swelling or damage. If we find signs, we’ll explain what’s happening and refer you for specialist care if needed. These checks are quick and help protect your sight.   ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":882,"content":883},{},[884],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":885,"data":886},[],{},{"entries":888},{"block":889},[],{"items":891},[892],{"__typename":893,"sys":894,"captionText":17,"imageAltText":896,"imageLink":17,"image":897},"MediaImage",{"id":895},"5eBddwUG2IUlVpH1XR7pMd","An eye doctor examines an older man's eyes using specialized ophthalmology equipment in a clinical setting.",{"url":898},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/2Egkb48uNeCtcSis6uYYZU/3fd7d206b159651de8d488b2b4cb3a98/eye_tests-banner-1536x864.jpg",{"__typename":84,"sys":900,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":901},{"id":75},{"json":902,"links":964},{"nodeType":135,"data":903,"content":904},{},[905,912,929,957],{"nodeType":99,"data":906,"content":907},{},[908],{"nodeType":98,"value":909,"marks":910,"data":911},"Treatment for diabetic retinopathy",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":913,"content":914},{},[915,919,925],{"nodeType":98,"value":916,"marks":917,"data":918},"If diabetic retinopathy is found early, you might not need treatment right away, but regular ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":920,"content":921},{"uri":124},[922],{"nodeType":98,"value":129,"marks":923,"data":924},[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":926,"marks":927,"data":928}," will help monitor it. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":930,"content":931},{},[932,936,943,946,953],{"nodeType":98,"value":933,"marks":934,"data":935},"If you’ve noticed ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":937,"content":938},{"uri":244},[939],{"nodeType":98,"value":940,"marks":941,"data":942},"blurred vision",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":713,"marks":944,"data":945},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":947,"content":948},{"uri":265},[949],{"nodeType":98,"value":950,"marks":951,"data":952},"floaters",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":954,"marks":955,"data":956}," or changes in your sight, book an eye test as soon as you can. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":958,"content":959},{},[960],{"nodeType":98,"value":961,"marks":962,"data":963},"The right treatment will depend on the stage and type of retinopathy. Your eye specialist will explain your options and answer your questions. ",[],{},{"entries":965},{"block":966},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":968,"theme":195,"genericTextComponent":970},{"id":969},"6b46VtjbvcwEeMkrLhwhvP",{"json":971,"links":1112},{"data":972,"content":973,"nodeType":135},{},[974,981,988,995,1002,1009,1042,1049,1056,1063,1070,1077,1084,1091,1098,1105],{"data":975,"content":976,"nodeType":99},{},[977],{"data":978,"marks":979,"value":980,"nodeType":98},{},[],"How is diabetic retinopathy treated?",{"data":982,"content":983,"nodeType":107},{},[984],{"data":985,"marks":986,"value":987,"nodeType":98},{},[],"You might be referred to an eye specialist for one of the following:",{"data":989,"content":990,"nodeType":388},{},[991],{"data":992,"marks":993,"value":994,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Laser treatment",{"data":996,"content":997,"nodeType":107},{},[998],{"data":999,"marks":1000,"value":1001,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Laser treatment seals leaking blood vessels and stops new ones from growing to help protect the retina and prevent further vision loss.  ",{"data":1003,"content":1004,"nodeType":107},{},[1005],{"data":1006,"marks":1007,"value":1008,"nodeType":98},{},[],"There are two main types: ",{"data":1010,"content":1011,"nodeType":228},{},[1012,1027],{"data":1013,"content":1014,"nodeType":232},{},[1015],{"data":1016,"content":1017,"nodeType":107},{},[1018,1023],{"data":1019,"marks":1020,"value":1022,"nodeType":98},{},[1021],{"type":207},"Focal laser photocoagulation",{"data":1024,"marks":1025,"value":1026,"nodeType":98},{},[]," – targets a specific affected area ",{"data":1028,"content":1029,"nodeType":232},{},[1030],{"data":1031,"content":1032,"nodeType":107},{},[1033,1038],{"data":1034,"marks":1035,"value":1037,"nodeType":98},{},[1036],{"type":207},"Pan-retinal photocoagulation",{"data":1039,"marks":1040,"value":1041,"nodeType":98},{},[]," – treats the wider peripheral retina",{"data":1043,"content":1044,"nodeType":107},{},[1045],{"data":1046,"marks":1047,"value":1048,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Laser treatment is done under local anaesthetic at an outpatient clinic. Your pupils will be widened with drops, and a special lens will keep your eye open. You may feel a mild pricking sensation in some areas, but most people don’t find it painful. The whole procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes. ",{"data":1050,"content":1051,"nodeType":107},{},[1052],{"data":1053,"marks":1054,"value":1055,"nodeType":98},{},[],"After treatment, your vision may be blurry for a few hours, and you’ll be sensitive to light, so bring sunglasses and arrange for someone to drive you home. It may take several sessions and a few months to see the full benefit. ",{"data":1057,"content":1058,"nodeType":388},{},[1059],{"data":1060,"marks":1061,"value":1062,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Eye injections",{"data":1064,"content":1065,"nodeType":107},{},[1066],{"data":1067,"marks":1068,"value":1069,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Injections, delivering anti-VEGF drugs, help reduce swelling in the macula and stop abnormal blood vessel growth. Sometimes steroids are used instead. ",{"data":1071,"content":1072,"nodeType":107},{},[1073],{"data":1074,"marks":1075,"value":1076,"nodeType":98},{},[],"The injection is given under local anaesthetic, using a fine needle. You may need monthly injections at first, with fewer as your condition stabilises. ",{"data":1078,"content":1079,"nodeType":107},{},[1080],{"data":1081,"marks":1082,"value":1083,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Side effects can include floaters, mild irritation, or watery eyes, but the treatment is safe and can improve vision in many people. ",{"data":1085,"content":1086,"nodeType":388},{},[1087],{"data":1088,"marks":1089,"value":1090,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Eye surgery (vitrectomy)",{"data":1092,"content":1093,"nodeType":107},{},[1094],{"data":1095,"marks":1096,"value":1097,"nodeType":98},{},[],"In more advanced cases, surgery may be needed to remove blood or scar tissue from inside the eye. This is called a vitrectomy. ",{"data":1099,"content":1100,"nodeType":107},{},[1101],{"data":1102,"marks":1103,"value":1104,"nodeType":98},{},[],"It’s usually done under local anaesthetic and sedation. You’ll go home the same day or the next, wearing an eye patch for a few days. It can take several months for your vision to settle afterwards. ",{"data":1106,"content":1107,"nodeType":107},{},[1108],{"data":1109,"marks":1110,"value":1111,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Risks like infection or retinal detachment are rare. The surgery is considered safe and helps improve or stabilise vision in most patients. ",{"entries":1113},{"block":1114},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":1116,"theme":195,"genericTextComponent":1117},{"id":80},{"json":1118,"links":1236},{"data":1119,"content":1120,"nodeType":135},{},[1121,1128,1135,1142,1149,1156,1163,1170,1177,1184,1191,1198,1205,1212,1229],{"data":1122,"content":1123,"nodeType":388},{},[1124],{"data":1125,"marks":1126,"value":1127,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Is diabetic retinopathy preventable?",{"data":1129,"content":1130,"nodeType":107},{},[1131],{"data":1132,"marks":1133,"value":1134,"nodeType":98},{},[],"You can’t always prevent diabetic retinopathy, but there’s a lot you can do to lower your risk and slow it down. Managing your diabetes well and having regular eye checks makes a real difference.  ",{"data":1136,"content":1137,"nodeType":482},{},[1138],{"data":1139,"marks":1140,"value":1141,"nodeType":98},{},[],"1. Keep your blood sugar in check. ",{"data":1143,"content":1144,"nodeType":107},{},[1145],{"data":1146,"marks":1147,"value":1148,"nodeType":98},{},[],"The better your control, the lower the risk of damage to the blood vessels in your eyes.",{"data":1150,"content":1151,"nodeType":482},{},[1152],{"data":1153,"marks":1154,"value":1155,"nodeType":98},{},[],"2. Manage your blood pressure.",{"data":1157,"content":1158,"nodeType":107},{},[1159],{"data":1160,"marks":1161,"value":1162,"nodeType":98},{},[],"High pressure puts extra strain on the delicate vessels in the retina. ",{"data":1164,"content":1165,"nodeType":482},{},[1166],{"data":1167,"marks":1168,"value":1169,"nodeType":98},{},[],"3. Watch your cholesterol.",{"data":1171,"content":1172,"nodeType":107},{},[1173],{"data":1174,"marks":1175,"value":1176,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Raised cholesterol can affect blood flow to your eyes. ",{"data":1178,"content":1179,"nodeType":482},{},[1180],{"data":1181,"marks":1182,"value":1183,"nodeType":98},{},[],"4. Don’t smoke. ",{"data":1185,"content":1186,"nodeType":107},{},[1187],{"data":1188,"marks":1189,"value":1190,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Smoking reduces circulation and speeds up damage to blood vessels. ",{"data":1192,"content":1193,"nodeType":482},{},[1194],{"data":1195,"marks":1196,"value":1197,"nodeType":98},{},[],"5. Go to all your diabetes check-ups. ",{"data":1199,"content":1200,"nodeType":107},{},[1201],{"data":1202,"marks":1203,"value":1204,"nodeType":98},{},[],"This includes foot checks, blood tests and other health reviews. ",{"data":1206,"content":1207,"nodeType":482},{},[1208],{"data":1209,"marks":1210,"value":1211,"nodeType":98},{},[],"6. Get regular eye checks.",{"data":1213,"content":1214,"nodeType":107},{},[1215,1219,1225],{"data":1216,"marks":1217,"value":1218,"nodeType":98},{},[],"A yearly diabetes ",{"data":1220,"content":1221,"nodeType":130},{"uri":124},[1222],{"data":1223,"marks":1224,"value":496,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1226,"marks":1227,"value":1228,"nodeType":98},{},[]," or eye screening helps spot any changes early, when treatment works best.",{"data":1230,"content":1231,"nodeType":107},{},[1232],{"data":1233,"marks":1234,"value":1235,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Even if you already have early signs of diabetic retinopathy, these steps can still help stop it getting worse.  ",{"entries":1237},{"block":1238},[],{"__typename":84,"sys":1240,"theme":86,"genericTextComponent":1242},{"id":1241},"6HbybX9LmxQLdWLSt08Ihh",{"json":1243,"links":1315},{"nodeType":135,"data":1244,"content":1245},{},[1246,1253,1260,1267,1274,1281,1288,1295,1302,1309],{"nodeType":99,"data":1247,"content":1248},{},[1249],{"nodeType":98,"value":1250,"marks":1251,"data":1252},"Driving and diabetic retinopathy",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1254,"content":1255},{},[1256],{"nodeType":98,"value":1257,"marks":1258,"data":1259},"Diabetic retinopathy, especially in later stages, can affect your ability to drive safely. Early stages often leave vision unaffected, but advanced stages can cause black spots, blurry sight or narrow side vision, all of which make driving harder.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1261,"content":1262},{},[1263],{"nodeType":98,"value":1264,"marks":1265,"data":1266},"Here’s what to know: ",[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":1268,"content":1269},{},[1270],{"nodeType":98,"value":1271,"marks":1272,"data":1273},"Visual impact ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1275,"content":1276},{},[1277],{"nodeType":98,"value":1278,"marks":1279,"data":1280},"Changes to your sight can affect reaction time, reading signs and judging distance, especially at night.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":1282,"content":1283},{},[1284],{"nodeType":98,"value":1285,"marks":1286,"data":1287},"Driving standards ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1289,"content":1290},{},[1291],{"nodeType":98,"value":1292,"marks":1293,"data":1294},"Check with Waka Kotahi NZTA about driving vision rules. If your sight doesn’t meet the standards, you must stop driving and inform them. You also need to tell them if you’ve had laser treatment in both eyes, have proliferative retinopathy or are told to stop after a screening or hospital visit.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":388,"data":1296,"content":1297},{},[1298],{"nodeType":98,"value":1299,"marks":1300,"data":1301},"Ophthalmologist advice ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1303,"content":1304},{},[1305],{"nodeType":98,"value":1306,"marks":1307,"data":1308},"If you’re unsure, speak to your optometrist or eye doctor. They’ll check your vision and advise you. Support and next steps If you can’t drive, use public transport, taxis or local help.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1310,"content":1311},{},[1312],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1313,"data":1314},[],{},{"entries":1316},{"block":1317},[],{"__typename":1319,"sys":1320,"title":1322,"theme":1323,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1324},"Accordion",{"id":1321},"P3f4zukz7D9c1TtoCeMkh","Common questions: Diabetic retinopathy","Grey",{"items":1325},[1326,1342,1393,1434,1449,1504,1519,1534,1549,1564,1579,1609],{"__typename":1327,"sys":1328,"panel":1330,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1341},"Faq",{"id":1329},"2HHbv69VkTjJRRF49A7E67",{"json":1331},{"data":1332,"content":1333,"nodeType":135},{},[1334],{"data":1335,"content":1336,"nodeType":107},{},[1337],{"data":1338,"marks":1339,"value":1340,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Not usually, but early treatment can stop it from getting worse. The earlier it’s found, the better the chance of protecting your sight.  ","Can diabetic retinopathy be reversed?",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1343,"panel":1345,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1392},{"id":1344},"40lepFBBjxatSGLtgJRXWS",{"json":1346},{"data":1347,"content":1348,"nodeType":135},{},[1349,1366],{"data":1350,"content":1351,"nodeType":107},{},[1352,1356,1362],{"data":1353,"marks":1354,"value":1355,"nodeType":98},{},[],"You might notice floaters, blurred vision, or trouble seeing at night. But many people don’t have symptoms at first, which is why regular ",{"data":1357,"content":1358,"nodeType":130},{"uri":124},[1359],{"data":1360,"marks":1361,"value":129,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1363,"marks":1364,"value":1365,"nodeType":98},{},[]," are so important.",{"data":1367,"content":1368,"nodeType":107},{},[1369,1373,1379,1383,1389],{"data":1370,"marks":1371,"value":1372,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Learn more about ",{"data":1374,"content":1375,"nodeType":130},{"uri":265},[1376],{"data":1377,"marks":1378,"value":950,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1380,"marks":1381,"value":1382,"nodeType":98},{},[]," and ",{"data":1384,"content":1385,"nodeType":130},{"uri":244},[1386],{"data":1387,"marks":1388,"value":940,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1390,"marks":1391,"value":664,"nodeType":98},{},[],"What are the first signs of diabetic retinopathy?",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1394,"panel":1396,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1433},{"id":1395},"1f4Emx3mI2XM7DviI8X2kJ",{"json":1397},{"nodeType":135,"data":1398,"content":1399},{},[1400,1407],{"nodeType":107,"data":1401,"content":1402},{},[1403],{"nodeType":98,"value":1404,"marks":1405,"data":1406},"You may see black spots, floaters, blurry patches or faded colours. Some people struggle more in low light or at night.",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1408,"content":1409},{},[1410,1413,1419,1423,1430],{"nodeType":98,"value":1372,"marks":1411,"data":1412},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":1414,"content":1415},{"uri":265},[1416],{"nodeType":98,"value":950,"marks":1417,"data":1418},[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":1420,"marks":1421,"data":1422},", and ",[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":1424,"content":1425},{"uri":244},[1426],{"nodeType":98,"value":1427,"marks":1428,"data":1429},"blurry patches",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1431,"data":1432},[],{},"What does diabetic retinopathy look like? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1435,"panel":1437,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1448},{"id":1436},"2V98jdfmoula9DWSKztbbO",{"json":1438},{"data":1439,"content":1440,"nodeType":135},{},[1441],{"data":1442,"content":1443,"nodeType":107},{},[1444],{"data":1445,"marks":1446,"value":1447,"nodeType":98},{},[],"No, you don’t usually need a GP referral for a diabetic eye check. You can book directly with an optometrist for a private eye test. Some public hospitals offer diabetic eye screening, and your GP or diabetes nurse can help refer you if needed.  ","Do I need a referral from my GP to get a diabetic eye check in New Zealand? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1450,"panel":1452,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1503},{"id":1451},"3e4jYG0ypU2ZMazbIZPmc2",{"json":1453},{"data":1454,"content":1455,"nodeType":135},{},[1456,1463,1496],{"data":1457,"content":1458,"nodeType":107},{},[1459],{"data":1460,"marks":1461,"value":1462,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Yes, if your eyesight remains within legal limits. You must report diabetic retinopathy to your licensing body if: ",{"data":1464,"content":1465,"nodeType":228},{},[1466,1476,1486],{"data":1467,"content":1468,"nodeType":232},{},[1469],{"data":1470,"content":1471,"nodeType":107},{},[1472],{"data":1473,"marks":1474,"value":1475,"nodeType":98},{},[],"You've received laser treatment for proliferative retinopathy ",{"data":1477,"content":1478,"nodeType":232},{},[1479],{"data":1480,"content":1481,"nodeType":107},{},[1482],{"data":1483,"marks":1484,"value":1485,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Your vision or field of view are impaired",{"data":1487,"content":1488,"nodeType":232},{},[1489],{"data":1490,"content":1491,"nodeType":107},{},[1492],{"data":1493,"marks":1494,"value":1495,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Your eye condition could affect your safe driving ",{"data":1497,"content":1498,"nodeType":107},{},[1499],{"data":1500,"marks":1501,"value":1502,"nodeType":98},{},[],"You may be required to submit medical and/or ophthalmologist assessments.","Can I still drive with diabetic retinopathy?",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1505,"panel":1507,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1518},{"id":1506},"3CjM4BGEfsczajlgpYaujk",{"json":1508},{"data":1509,"content":1510,"nodeType":135},{},[1511],{"data":1512,"content":1513,"nodeType":107},{},[1514],{"data":1515,"marks":1516,"value":1517,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Your optometrist can spot signs that suggest diabetes, like changes to the blood vessels at the back of your eye. If we notice anything unusual, we’ll refer you to your GP or diabetes care team.  ","Can an eye test show diabetes? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1520,"panel":1522,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1533},{"id":1521},"4WtZwjrJjgtmtw8qanbruo",{"json":1523},{"data":1524,"content":1525,"nodeType":135},{},[1526],{"data":1527,"content":1528,"nodeType":107},{},[1529],{"data":1530,"marks":1531,"value":1532,"nodeType":98},{},[],"It can affect one or both eyes, depending on how long you’ve had diabetes and how well it’s managed.  ","Does diabetic retinopathy affect both eyes?",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1535,"panel":1537,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1548},{"id":1536},"53NAV9APBZzwsrAIavp18k",{"json":1538},{"data":1539,"content":1540,"nodeType":135},{},[1541],{"data":1542,"content":1543,"nodeType":107},{},[1544],{"data":1545,"marks":1546,"value":1547,"nodeType":98},{},[],"No, it doesn’t usually cause any eye pain. That’s one reason why people don’t always realise it’s developing.","Is diabetic retinopathy painful? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1550,"panel":1552,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1563},{"id":1551},"42eMh7fSzcq4CLsHHWcLgF",{"json":1553},{"data":1554,"content":1555,"nodeType":135},{},[1556],{"data":1557,"content":1558,"nodeType":107},{},[1559],{"data":1560,"marks":1561,"value":1562,"nodeType":98},{},[],"It’s rare, but if it’s left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause permanent sight loss. Catching it early is the best way to prevent this.","Will I go blind from diabetic retinopathy? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1565,"panel":1567,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1578},{"id":1566},"5A4YPZBhW1tdu33QG7IQ9E",{"json":1568},{"data":1569,"content":1570,"nodeType":135},{},[1571],{"data":1572,"content":1573,"nodeType":107},{},[1574],{"data":1575,"marks":1576,"value":1577,"nodeType":98},{},[],"No, not directly. If you have diabetes and are getting headaches, it’s worth having both your eyes and general health checked.","Does diabetic retinopathy cause headaches? ",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1580,"panel":1582,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1608},{"id":1581},"1tB7tvo0WMuKFUeWXHl6WI",{"json":1583},{"data":1584,"content":1585,"nodeType":135},{},[1586,1593],{"data":1587,"content":1588,"nodeType":107},{},[1589],{"data":1590,"marks":1591,"value":1592,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Blurred vision can happen even when your blood sugar is well managed. Other factors like blood pressure, early retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema may be involved.",{"data":1594,"content":1595,"nodeType":107},{},[1596,1599,1605],{"data":1597,"marks":1598,"value":1372,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1600,"content":1601,"nodeType":130},{"uri":244},[1602],{"data":1603,"marks":1604,"value":940,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1606,"marks":1607,"value":664,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Why has my vision gone blurry if my diabetes is under control?",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1610,"panel":1612,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1623},{"id":1611},"1q9lLPkKodl8enKRSZfmQ7",{"json":1613},{"data":1614,"content":1615,"nodeType":135},{},[1616],{"data":1617,"content":1618,"nodeType":107},{},[1619],{"data":1620,"marks":1621,"value":1622,"nodeType":98},{},[],"An optometrist can’t diagnose diabetes, but they may spot signs that suggest it such as changes to the blood vessels at the back of your eye. If anything looks unusual during your eye test, we’ll let you know and recommend a follow-up with your GP or diabetes care team.","Can diabetes be detected in an eye exam?",{"__typename":1625,"sys":1626,"title":1627,"body":1628,"theme":1629,"buttonCollection":1630},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":45},"Did you know?","AA Members are entitled to a free eye test (valued at $60), once every two years. Remember to present your AA Membership card in-store.","Block Colour",{"items":1631},[1632,1635],{"linkText":1633,"linkUrl":1634,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment","/stores",{"linkText":1636,"linkUrl":1637,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","/eye-health/eye-conditions",{"__typename":1639,"sys":1640,"title":1642,"backgroundTheme":1643,"authorEntriesCollection":1644},"AuthorContainer",{"id":1641},"4q5La6K1ANWF9pTI6wZ2bx","Written with care and checked for accuracy","White",{"items":1645},[1646],{"authorBiography":1647,"authorName":1665,"authorQualification":1666,"authorPhoto":1667},{"json":1648},{"nodeType":135,"data":1649,"content":1650},{},[1651,1658],{"nodeType":107,"data":1652,"content":1653},{},[1654],{"nodeType":98,"value":1655,"marks":1656,"data":1657},"Dr Joseph Paul studied optometry at the University of Melbourne, graduating in 2011. He then completed a PhD in retinal structure and function at the University of Melbourne and a post-doctoral position in optic nerve bioenergetics at the Centre for Eye Research Australia. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1659,"content":1660},{},[1661],{"nodeType":98,"value":1662,"marks":1663,"data":1664},"Alongside this work, Dr Joseph has practised in a wide range of public, private and corporate optometry practices across Victoria over the past decade. He is Head of Professional Services at Specsavers Australia and New Zealand.",[],{},"Dr Joseph Paul ","B.Optom PhD",{"url":1668},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/20CooX3JMWudhhs1eaZS8k/48450e8b531c83540b393afe3cfc218f/Joseph_Paul.jpg",{"__typename":1670,"sys":1671,"title":1673,"theme":1643,"listType":1674,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1675},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":1672},"3m7fkFcQcRNNACdWYdw0LN","Sources we've used","Numbered",{"items":1676},[1677,1685,1691,1697,1703],{"__typename":1678,"sys":1679,"citationAuthor":1681,"citationYear":1682,"citationDescription":1683,"citationUrl":1684,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},"Citation",{"id":1680},"558A4dWh4tDptmdcUYIUxl","Alqahtani, A.S., Alshareef, W.M., Aljadani, H.T., Hawsawi, W.O., et al.",2025,"The efficacy of artificial intelligence in diabetic retinopathy screening: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Retina and Vitreous, [online] 11(1)","https://doi.org/10.1186/s40942-025-00670-9",{"__typename":1678,"sys":1686,"citationAuthor":1688,"citationYear":1682,"citationDescription":1689,"citationUrl":1690,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1687},"6mKGTMTeZ0eF2vFPgdZWGb","Elghzali, A., Swami, V., Hossain, M.D., Jones, G., J. Tyler Babek, et al.","A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Assessing Diversity and Representation in Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Trials in the U.S. Ophthalmic Epidemiology, pp.1–11.","https://doi.org/10.1080/09286586.2025.2457620",{"__typename":1678,"sys":1692,"citationAuthor":1694,"citationYear":1682,"citationDescription":1695,"citationUrl":1696,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1693},"6lkEi8rN19dXyP0bKK8pza","‌Li, G., Wang, L. and Feng, F.","A systematic meta-analysis of the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy. Technology and Health Care.","https://doi.org/10.1177/09287329241295877",{"__typename":1678,"sys":1698,"citationAuthor":1700,"citationYear":17,"citationDescription":1701,"citationUrl":1702,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1699},"40aoJ7WRjWvD5yhjHR4OXo","bestpractice.bmj.com.","Diabetic retinopathy - Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice.","https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/532",{"__typename":1678,"sys":1704,"citationAuthor":1706,"citationYear":1707,"citationDescription":1708,"citationUrl":1709,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":17},{"id":1705},"4BCxBHNBXh7WlSJ0Ir5L7Z","Shukla, U.V. and Tripathy, K. ",2023," Diabetic Retinopathy. [online] PubMed. ","https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560805/",{"__typename":1319,"sys":1711,"title":1713,"theme":1323,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1714},{"id":1712},"6tYkkxQ5gw8Op7svKiu6oJ","Could it be something else?",{"items":1715},[1716,1748,1780,1812,1844,1876],{"__typename":1327,"sys":1717,"panel":1719,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1747},{"id":1718},"67FbnEKFDHGxu8JYTupAQD",{"json":1720},{"nodeType":135,"data":1721,"content":1722},{},[1723,1730],{"nodeType":107,"data":1724,"content":1725},{},[1726],{"nodeType":98,"value":1727,"marks":1728,"data":1729},"This age-related condition affects the central part of your vision, making it harder to see fine details or read. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1731,"content":1732},{},[1733,1736,1744],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1734,"data":1735},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":1737,"content":1739},{"uri":1738},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/macular-degeneration",[1740],{"nodeType":98,"value":1741,"marks":1742,"data":1743},"Learn more about macular degeneration",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1745,"data":1746},[],{},"Macular degeneration",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1749,"panel":1751,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1779},{"id":1750},"15AA3Z4bep1QE8k6Sffj1T",{"json":1752},{"data":1753,"content":1754,"nodeType":135},{},[1755,1762],{"data":1756,"content":1757,"nodeType":107},{},[1758],{"data":1759,"marks":1760,"value":1761,"nodeType":98},{},[],"If your vision looks misty or washed out, especially in bright light or when driving at night, it could be cataracts. ",{"data":1763,"content":1764,"nodeType":107},{},[1765,1768,1776],{"data":1766,"marks":1767,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1769,"content":1771,"nodeType":130},{"uri":1770},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/cataract",[1772],{"data":1773,"marks":1774,"value":1775,"nodeType":98},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about cataracts",{"data":1777,"marks":1778,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Cataracts",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1781,"panel":1783,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1811},{"id":1782},"1FAVjC1oHPKyfFmXGXdEiZ",{"json":1784},{"data":1785,"content":1786,"nodeType":135},{},[1787,1794],{"data":1788,"content":1789,"nodeType":107},{},[1790],{"data":1791,"marks":1792,"value":1793,"nodeType":98},{},[],"When your cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball, it can cause astigmatism, leading to blurred or distorted vision. ",{"data":1795,"content":1796,"nodeType":107},{},[1797,1800,1808],{"data":1798,"marks":1799,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1801,"content":1803,"nodeType":130},{"uri":1802},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/astigmatism",[1804],{"data":1805,"marks":1806,"value":1807,"nodeType":98},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about astigmatism",{"data":1809,"marks":1810,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Astigmatism",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1813,"panel":1815,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1843},{"id":1814},"4mfpRA1puPER3D0XoHnOrm",{"json":1816},{"nodeType":135,"data":1817,"content":1818},{},[1819,1826],{"nodeType":107,"data":1820,"content":1821},{},[1822],{"nodeType":98,"value":1823,"marks":1824,"data":1825},"Long-sightedness can cause blurry near vision even if your distance vision is fine. ",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1827,"content":1828},{},[1829,1832,1840],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1830,"data":1831},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":1833,"content":1835},{"uri":1834},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/long-sightedness",[1836],{"nodeType":98,"value":1837,"marks":1838,"data":1839},"Learn more about long-sightedness",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1841,"data":1842},[],{},"Long-sightedness",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1845,"panel":1847,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1875},{"id":1846},"1mHwN4nuZfEOWpfwmi82eK",{"json":1848},{"data":1849,"content":1850,"nodeType":135},{},[1851,1858],{"data":1852,"content":1853,"nodeType":107},{},[1854],{"data":1855,"marks":1856,"value":1857,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Short-sightedness (myopia) affects distance vision, but usually doesn’t impact close-up tasks. ",{"data":1859,"content":1860,"nodeType":107},{},[1861,1864,1872],{"data":1862,"marks":1863,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],{"data":1865,"content":1867,"nodeType":130},{"uri":1866},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/myopia",[1868],{"data":1869,"marks":1870,"value":1871,"nodeType":98},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about myopia",{"data":1873,"marks":1874,"value":239,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Myopia",{"__typename":1327,"sys":1877,"panel":1879,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":299},{"id":1878},"4X16xsgvQu0AWGHTUfTKWR",{"json":1880},{"nodeType":135,"data":1881,"content":1882},{},[1883,1890],{"nodeType":107,"data":1884,"content":1885},{},[1886],{"nodeType":98,"value":1887,"marks":1888,"data":1889},"If your sight seems foggy or blurred, it could be caused by cataracts or another condition affecting your eye health.",[],{},{"nodeType":107,"data":1891,"content":1892},{},[1893,1896,1903],{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1894,"data":1895},[],{},{"nodeType":130,"data":1897,"content":1898},{"uri":296},[1899],{"nodeType":98,"value":1900,"marks":1901,"data":1902},"Learn more about cloudy vision",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":98,"value":239,"marks":1904,"data":1905},[],{},{"__typename":1907,"sys":1908,"title":1910,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":1643,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1911},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1909},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1912},[1913,1921,1929],{"title":1914,"body":1915,"imageAltText":1916,"linkText":1917,"linkUrl":1918,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1919},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","/eye-tests/do-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1920},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr/22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189/eye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1922,"body":1923,"imageAltText":1924,"linkText":1925,"linkUrl":1926,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1927},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","/eye-tests/your-store-visit-explained",{"url":1928},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi/ffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785/eye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1930,"body":1931,"imageAltText":1932,"linkText":1933,"linkUrl":124,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1934},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests",{"url":1935},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9/47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1/eye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":1670,"sys":1937,"title":1939,"theme":1323,"listType":1940,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1941},{"id":1938},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1942},[1943],{"__typename":1944,"body":1945},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1946},{"data":1947,"content":1948,"nodeType":135},{},[1949],{"data":1950,"content":1951,"nodeType":107},{},[1952],{"data":1953,"marks":1954,"value":1955,"nodeType":98},{},[],"Free exam for AA Members applies to standard eye examinations only, normally valued at $60. Excludes contact lens examination and visual field checks. Limited to one per AA Member every two years. Available to current AA Members upon presentation of AA Membership card.",[17,17,17],1780578329194]