Frequently Asked Questions
I can't afford to go to the eye doctor to have eye tests. Is there an alternative?
My GP has asked me to see an ophthalmologist. Can I see an optometrist instead?
I have some retinopathy. Can the optometrist treat me?
Are there any vitamins I should take?
My optometrist has picked up some problems. How quickly do I need to see the ophthalmologist?
My mum had diabetic eye problems. What is my risk?
Questions and answers
I don't like getting my eyes dilated for eye tests. Is there another way that my eyes can be tested for diabetic eye disease?
The optometrist can get the best view of the back of your eye by dilating (enlarging) the pupils using special eye drops, especially if you have any degree of cataract. It may be possible however to have a retinal scan done without dilation, although the accuracy of the exam may not be as good. Also, if your pupils are dilated, make sure that you take some sunglasses for afterwards. You shouldn't drive for several hours after having your pupils dilated. Read more about eye tests here.
I can't afford to go to the eye doctor to have eye tests. Is there an alternative?
Most eye tests can be done by an optometrist, especially before significant retinopathy has developed. Tests by an optometrist will either be bulk billed, or will generally only cost a small additional amount. If you already have significant retinopathy, you must be seen by an ophthalmologist. Find your nearest ophthalmologist here.
Not many GPs have the necessary equipment or additional training to do a full eye test for diabetic retinopathy. You can ask, but most GPs will ask you to see the optometrist or ophthalmologist. Find your nearest optometrist or ophthalmologist here.
My GP has asked me to see an ophthalmologist. Can I see an optometrist instead?
Most optometrists can do the initial tests for diabetic eye disease. If the optometrist finds anything of concern, or if your vision has already deteriorated, you must see an ophthalmologist. Find your nearest ophthalmologist here.
I have some retinopathy. Can the optometrist treat me?
No, the optometrist can perform the diagnosis, but only the ophthalmologist is able to provide the various treatments that may be suitable. Find your nearest ophthalmologist or optometrist here.
Are there any vitamins I should take?
There is no evidence that any specific vitamins will help diabetic eye disease. A healthy diet however is extremely important to control your diabetes, and you are encouraged to ask your GP to refer you to a diabetes counsellor and/or a dietitian to help improve your diet. You can also find out more about dietitian's services here.
The ophthalmologist said I should be taking fenofibrate (Lipidil) but my GP says it isn't necessary because my lipids are ok.
Ask your GP to talk to your ophthalmologist.
An Amsler grid can be helpful for picking up signs of macular degeneration, but it is less helpful for diabetic retinopathy.
My optometrist has picked up some problems. How quickly do I need to see the ophthalmologist?
If an optometrist has detected something requiring a visit to the ophthalmologist, this should normally be within four weeks. In certain cases, it may need to be much quicker. You should check with your optometrist.
My mum had diabetic eye problems. What is my risk?
It is difficult to say precisely, as there are many genes involved. It is important that you do everything possible to avoid diabetes, or if you already have diabetes, to control it as well as possible. And don't forget the regular eye tests! Find your nearest optometrist or ophthalmologist here.