Retina
What happens at a diabetic eye screening?
A diabetic eye screening is a painless check of the retina for early damage. Vision is measured, drops are used to widen the pupils, and the retina is examined and photographed. It usually takes under an hour including the time for drops to work. Everyone with diabetes should be screened at least once a year, even with normal vision.
What the visit involves
- Vision measurement and, where needed, a check of your glasses prescription
- Eye pressure measurement, since diabetes also raises glaucoma risk
- Dilating drops, which take about twenty minutes to work
- Examination of the retina and digital photographs of both eyes
- An OCT scan of the macula if there is any sign of swelling
Practical points
Bring your glasses, a list of your medications and your recent blood sugar results if you have them. After dilation your near vision will be blurred and bright light uncomfortable for a few hours, so arrange transport and bring sunglasses.
Screening is a check, not a treatment visit. If changes are found, the next step and its timing will be explained to you at the same appointment.
How often
Annual screening is the usual minimum for adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. More frequent review is advised where retinopathy is already present, where control has been poor, during pregnancy, or after treatment. Your ophthalmologist sets the interval based on what your retina shows.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I drive after screening?
- It is not advisable for a few hours because the dilating drops blur near vision and make you sensitive to light. Plan for someone else to drive.
- Do I need screening if my diabetes is diet controlled?
- Yes. Retinal damage relates to blood sugar levels over time, not to which treatment you use.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
Care at Standard Eye
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