Q: Which doctor should be consulted for Diabetic Retinopathy?
A: Your general practitioner should refer you to an ophthalmologist or an eye doctor.
Q: How can I protect my eyes from the effects of Diabetes?
A:
- Keep your blood sugar under control by adjusting your diet and taking medications as advised by your doctor
- Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control
- Exercise regularly
- Get a regular check up with an Ophthalmologist, at least once a year
Q: Can Diabetes make me blind?
A: Diabetic retinopathy, if untreated can lead to blindness. However, if detected on time, damage to the retina can be controlled with proper treatment.
Q: How long does it take for Diabetic Retinopathy to develop?
A: In patients of Type I DM, screening for Diabetic Retinopathy is generally started after 5 years of diagnosis. However, in patients of Type II DM, screening is started immediately on diagnosis.