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Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 9:00am - 5:00pm, Sat: 9:00am - 4:00pm, Sun: Closed
Email: heswall@eye2eyeopticians.com
Diabetic eye screening tests
Diabetic eye screening is a test to check for eye problems caused by diabetes, often before they affect your sight.
At Eye 2 Eye Opticians, we offer a diabetic eye screening service in partnership with your local GP to identify any potential issues affecting the health of your eyes relating to diabetes.
How can diabetes affect your eyes?
People with diabetes are at risk of damage to the back of the eye caused by diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes and a leading cause of blindness among working-age adults.
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the small blood vessels which leak blood at the back of the eye affecting the part called the retina. If not monitored and treated it can lead to sight loss.
What happens in a diabetic screening test?
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The full diabetic eye test will take anywhere between 30-45 minutes.
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A full eye examination will be carried out, followed by the retinopathy screening.
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Your optometrist will insert drops into your eye which will widen or dilate your pupils. This makes it easier for your Optometrist to see the different parts of the eye.
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The drops will take about 15 minutes to fully dilate your pupils.
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Your optometrist will then take photographs of the back of the eye using a specialised camera.
What happens after the test?
After the images of your eye have been taken, the photographs are closely examined and the results will be reported back to you.
Your results will then be sent to a central administration department where they will be checked again before you receive an official letter with your results.
How often should diabetics have eye tests?
If your eyes are healthy and your diabetes is well controlled, then it is usual to have a diabetic eye screening once a year.
However, if your diabetes requires closer monitoring or your eyes are being affected, then closer monitoring by an optometrist or at the hospital eye department may be required.
If you have any questions or concerns, our optometrists can advise you. Contact us by clicking on the button below.