Do I need yearly eye checks for diabetes?

Answered byDr. Kiran Kumar GollaMBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Endocrinologist)

Fact checked byDiabetes.co.in medical review team

Asked on

Answered on

Patient's Query

36 years old • female

I have type 2 diabetes and keep hearing about the dangers of diabetic retinopathy. How frequently should I schedule eye exams if I don't currently have vision problems or noticeable symptoms? Is annual screening necessary?

Doctor Answers

Dr. Kiran Kumar Golla

Endocrinologist

Yes, annual dilated eye exams are generally recommended for individuals with diabetes—even without symptoms—to detect diabetic retinopathy early. Retinopathy often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant vision damage occurs.

General recommendations:

Type 2 Diabetes: Initial comprehensive dilated eye exam shortly after diagnosis, then yearly thereafter.
Stable eyes: Some guidelines allow exams every 1–2 years after multiple normal results, but only under an ophthalmologist’s guidance.

Early identification allows treatments like laser therapy or injections, significantly reducing vision loss risks. Good glycemic control, blood pressure management, and lipid control can also prevent or delay diabetic retinopathy progression.

Discuss personalized screening intervals with your ophthalmologist and endocrinologist based on your health profile.

References:

American Diabetes Association. (2023). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2023: Microvascular Complications. Diabetes Care, 46(Suppl 1), S135–S147.
Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network. (2019). Frequency of Examination Recommendations. Ophthalmology, 126(11), 1589–1600.
Cheung, N., Mitchell, P., & Wong, T. Y. (2010). Diabetic retinopathy. The Lancet, 376(9735), 124–136.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this Q&A is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance and treatment recommendations.