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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How often should I have an eye exam if I have diabetes?

    Related Topics
    Diabetic Retinopathy Endocrinology Type 2 Diabetes
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  • 1

    Agree

    Michael Kline

    Exercise Physiologist, Exercise Scientist

    I am an accredited Exercise Physiologist and have worked with a variety of clients including chronic disease, general population, athletes and corporate/workplace. To give a … View Profile

    When your first diagnosed then at least every 2 years. Your doctor may recommend for you to have a check up more frequently.

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  • Dr Simon Little

    Optometrist

    Simon has over 30 years experience in Optometry and Optical Dispensing and is the owner of North Lakes Optometry, an Ethical, Independent Optometry Practice providing … View Profile

    You should have an eye exam as soon as you know you are diabetic, then as recommended by your optometrist.
    Whilst tighter glycaemic control usually means less diabetic complications, please remember that any diabetic can have eye problems.
    Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of permanent vision impairment and regular eye exams are essential for the diagnosis and management of this condition. You would not necessarily realise that there is anything wrong - most diabetics are unaware of their eye disease when it is diagnosed.

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    Thanks

    Olga Lutzko

    Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), Diabetes Educator

    At ‘Succeed in Diabetes’ we believe in helping you achieve your success in diabetes management. Olga has thirteen years experience in helping clients with insulin … View Profile

    Yearly is usually the recommendation once diagnosed with diabetes. However if there is any complications then it may be recommended by the health professional to have the eye exams more frequent.

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    Dr Harry Melides

    Optometrist

    Have been in private practice for 40 years and specialise in assessing eye diseases and giving professional advice regarding these conditions. With the installation of … View Profile

    The fact is the longer the diabetes is present, the more damage is done.

    Newly diagnosed diabetics need 3 reviews in a 2 year period.

    If a bleed is detected, the retina is to be seen more regularly..especially if you smoke or if overweight and no exercise the RISK is increased, as they say moderation is the key.

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