GCEO Group®Patient resources
Diabetes and your eyes
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina at the back of your eye. Early damage may cause no symptoms.
Keep your eye checks
- Attend regular retinal screening or dilated eye examinations, even when your vision seems normal.
- Many people need a check every year. Your eye-care team will set the interval according to your diabetes and eye findings.
Protect your vision
- Work with your care team to manage blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol. Take medicines as prescribed.
- Stay active, follow your healthy eating plan and get support to stop smoking.
- Tell your care team if you are planning pregnancy or become pregnant; you may need additional eye checks.
If changes are found
Treatment may include monitoring, eye injections, laser or surgery. Your eye doctor will explain the options for your condition.
General information. Follow your clinician’s individual advice.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked: 4 October 2026