Not all diabetics have visual problems. However, as their risks are increased a regular eye examination is important. There may be no symptoms during the early stages of retinopathy, but an optometrist can detect early changes, enabling treatment to be given as soon as the problem arises. However, occasionally symptoms may occur before the problem has been detected and the patient needs to consult their optometrist or doctor.

Symptoms to look out for include blurred vision and vision loss - usually in both eyes but sometimes affecting one eye more than the other.