Diabetic Eye Examinations in Cairns

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A Woman is Getting Her Eyes Checked by an Ophthalmologist — Michael Chu Optometrist in Cairns North, QLD

Protecting Your Vision

Michael Chu Optometrist offers specialised diabetic eye examinations to help patients in Cairns and surrounding areas.
Detects and manages conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and glaucoma. Regular screenings allow us to detect subtle changes early, reducing the risk of long-term damage to your vision.
Comprehensive exams use advanced diagnostic tools, including retinal imaging, to monitor for any signs of deterioration.
Book your diabetic eye examination today by calling (07) 4031 2788 and take a proactive step toward preserving your vision.

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Advanced Testing for Early Detection

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in older Australians. Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye problems that diabetics may face as a complication of their diabetes. All can cause severe vision loss or even blindness.

Diabetic eye disease may include:

Diabetic retinopathy - occurs when the tiny blood vessels inside the retina at the back of the eye are damaged as a result of diabetes. This can seriously affect vision and in some cause blindness

Cataracts - occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts develop at an earlier age in people with diabetes.

Glaucoma - is associated with an increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that leads to optic nerve damage and loss of vision. A person with diabetes is nearly twice as likely to get glaucoma as other adults.

During your eye appointment, we will provide a thorough eye examination including a digital photograph. Often there are no symptoms in the early stages of the disease, nor is there any pain. Don't wait for symptoms. In order that sight threatening changes can be detected, and treated, before vision is lost, it is essential that people with diabetes have an eye examination at least once a year if not more.

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FAQ's

What happens during a diabetic eye exam?

During a diabetic eye exam, the optometrist or ophthalmologist will perform a series of tests to assess both your vision and the health of your eyes. The exam typically begins with a discussion about your medical history, including your diabetes management and any medications you’re taking. A visual acuity test will check your ability to see clearly at various distances, making sure that any changes to your prescription are addressed.

Next, the optometrist will administer dilating eye drops to widen your pupils, allowing a clearer view of the retina and optic nerve. The retina is scanned for signs of diabetic retinopathy, such as swelling, leaking blood vessels or abnormal tissue growth. The optic nerve may also be examined for signs of glaucoma, as people with diabetes are at higher risk for this condition. Some clinics use digital retinal photography or OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) to capture detailed images of the retina, which are used to track changes over time.

The exam may also include a tonometry test to measure intraocular pressure, as elevated pressure can indicate glaucoma. Once all tests are completed, the optometrist will discuss any findings, recommend treatment if necessary and schedule follow-up exams to monitor your eye health.
Does pregnancy and other health condition require regular eye exams?

Additional eye exams are recommended throughout pregnancy for women with diabetes, as hormone fluctuations can cause rapid changes in eye health.

People managing diabetes and other conditions, such as high blood pressure, may also require closer monitoring to reduce the risk of combined eye complications. Following your optometrist’s recommended exam schedule helps detect and manage any changes promptly.
What are the symptoms of diabetic eye problems?

Diabetic eye diseases can develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This is why regular diabetic eye exams are essential, allowing early detection before serious complications arise. As the disease progresses, people may begin to notice blurry or distorted vision, difficulty seeing in low light or spots and floaters in their field of vision. In more advanced cases, sudden vision loss or dark areas in vision can occur, which may indicate retinal detachment or bleeding in the retina.

Other symptoms may include eye pain, redness or pressure, especially if glaucoma is developing alongside diabetic retinopathy. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as untreated diabetic eye problems can lead to permanent vision loss. Even without symptoms, yearly eye exams are necessary to catch these issues in the early stages.