Diabetes eye checks in Reservoir
Diabetes eye checks in Reservoir.
Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels at the back of the eye. These changes may not cause noticeable symptoms at first, which is why regular eye examinations remain important even when your vision feels normal.
Reservoir Spectacles provides diabetes-related eye examinations as part of our local eye-health care. We explain what we find and, when needed, coordinate further care with your GP, diabetes team or ophthalmologist.
Retinal changes can begin before vision feels different. Keep the eye-check schedule recommended for you.
Diabetes and the eyes
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Diabetes can also be associated with diabetic macular oedema (swelling around the central retina), cataract and changes in focusing or prescription.
Regular eye checks support early detection. They do not replace your usual diabetes care, blood tests or appointments with your GP and diabetes team.
Planning your next check
How often should you have a diabetes eye check?
Diabetes Australia recommends an eye check when diabetes is first diagnosed and at least every two years afterwards. Some people need annual or more frequent reviews, depending on their eye findings and individual care plan. Follow your own clinician’s recommendation, including any specialist appointments.
KeepSight recommends yearly checks for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with diabetes. If you cannot remember your last check, call us to discuss arranging one rather than waiting for symptoms.
Your appointment
What may be checked?
Vision and prescription
We assess how clearly you see and whether your glasses prescription has changed. Blood glucose variation can sometimes affect focusing, so recent changes in diabetes management are useful to discuss.
Retinal health
We examine the retina for signs of diabetes-related change. Retinal photography, OCT imaging or other tests may be used when clinically appropriate.
Clear follow-up
We explain the findings and recommend an appropriate review interval. If specialist assessment is needed, we can discuss referral and communication with your healthcare team.
Preparing for your visit
Bring information that helps us understand your eye-health history.
- Your current glasses and a list of medicines
- The name of your GP, diabetes educator or endocrinologist
- Any previous eye reports or information about past treatment
- Details of vision changes, even if they come and go
Plan for possible dilating drops.
Ask when booking whether your pupils may need to be dilated. These drops can temporarily blur vision and increase light sensitivity. Bring sunglasses and consider arranging a lift. Do not drive until your vision has returned to normal and you can see safely; follow the advice given at your appointment.
If this is your first visit to the practice, you may also find our comprehensive eye-test guide helpful.
When to seek help sooner
Do not wait for a routine appointment if your vision changes suddenly.
New flashes or a sudden increase in floaters need same-day assessment. Sudden loss of vision, a dark curtain or shadow, or severe eye pain needs immediate emergency care. Do not assume a sudden change is only a glucose fluctuation.
If we are closed or you cannot reach us, seek urgent medical care rather than waiting for a callback or online booking. See our urgent eye-care guidance and flashes and floaters guide. Our blurred vision guide explains other changes worth discussing.
Australian patient information
Reliable information and reminders.
Diabetes Australia explains diabetes and eye health. Reservoir Spectacles uses KeepSight, Diabetes Australia’s reminder program, to help patients remember when their next diabetes eye check is due. The NDSS eye-health information explains why eye checks work alongside your wider diabetes care. Healthdirect also provides practical eye-care guidance.
Diabetes eye examinations in Reservoir
Keep your eye-health checks on track.
Book an eye examination or call Reservoir Spectacles if you are unsure when your next diabetes eye check is due.