Diabetes is a serious condition which can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes and feet if left untreated.
Often, people with diabetes don’t get any symptoms which means it can take up to 10 years before they are diagnosed. But there is an easy test which can check for the condition – an eye examination.
Those suffering with diabetes are up to 20 times more likely to lose their sight than those without the condition. However, only one in five adults are aware that their optician can detect the signs. That is why, during Diabetes Awareness Week (June 10th-16th), Specsavers in Frome highlighted the importance of having regular eye tests.
Richard Goring, store director from Specsavers in Warminster and Frome says, “An estimated 1 million people in the UK are living with diabetes without even realising it – meaning they’re at huge risk of developing serious eye health complications and even sight loss.
“Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health conditions today – fuelled by record levels of obesity, excessive sugar consumption and sedentary lifestyles. If we continue to turn a blind eye to the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes as a result, we can only expect to see the number of undiagnosed cases escalate.”
A complication of diabetes is diabetic retinopathy where high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the back of the eye. If left untreated, it can cause blindness.
Richard adds, “Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness among people of working age in the UK so it’s hugely important that diabetes is detected early and monitored correctly to avoid furthering the risks.
“At Specsavers, we offer digital retinal photography for free as part of a standard eye test for customers aged over 40. This takes a detailed picture of the back of your eye and the microcirculation of blood – helping to highlight indicators of diabetes that need addressing and monitoring.”
Specsavers recommends everyone should get an eye test once every two years and those over 55 should get their hearing checked once a year. For further information or to book an appointment visit: www.spec savers.co.uk/stores/frome.
