Diabetes & your eye health
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment
Protecting your vision starts with looking beneath the surface. Our optometrists assess diabetic eye changes, monitor your retinal health and help arrange specialist care when needed.
Your vision can feel normal even when diabetic eye changes are developing.
Understanding the condition
What is Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic Retinopathy is a serious diabetic eye disease that occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the retina. It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults and is most common in people with long-standing or poorly managed diabetes.
There are two main stages of the disease:
- Non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR): Early stage, often without symptoms
- Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR): Advanced stage, with abnormal blood vessel growth and risk of severe vision loss
With regular eye checks and the right care, diabetic retinopathy treatment can help manage the condition and protect your sight.
Fluid can also build up in the macula, the central part of the retina. This is called diabetic macular oedema and can affect detailed central vision.
Know the signs
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters
- Poor night vision
- Difficulty reading or focusing
- Sudden vision loss (in severe cases)
A closer look at your retina
How Diabetic Retinopathy is Diagnosed
At Spectacle Hub, our experienced optometrists use advanced diagnostic technology to assess and monitor diabetic eye health. A diabetic eye examination may include:
- Retinal photography
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
- Dilated eye examination
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure testing
These assessments allow us to detect subtle changes in the retina, often before symptoms appear. Early intervention is key to successful diabetic eye disease treatment.
Retinal imaging
A closer look at your eye health
Retinal imaging helps our optometrists assess and monitor changes at the back of your eye.
Explore retinal imaging
The right care at the right time
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment Options
Treatment for diabetic retinopathy depends on the stage and severity of the disease. Our approach to diabetic eye care management includes:
Monitoring and Lifestyle Advice
In early stages, improving blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can help slow progression. We work with your GP or endocrinologist to support your broader diabetes management.
Laser Treatment
In cases of abnormal blood vessel growth or retinal swelling, laser therapy may be used to reduce leakage and prevent further vision loss.
Anti-VEGF Injections
These injections block the growth of new blood vessels in advanced cases and can help preserve vision when administered early.
Surgical Intervention
In severe cases, surgery such as vitrectomy may be required to remove blood or scar tissue from the retina.
If required, we refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist for specialist care while continuing your routine monitoring and management.
Book a diabetic eye check today with a trusted optometrist.
Schedule an appointment online for early detection and personalised care.
MAKE A BOOKING todayCare close to home
Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment in Melbourne and Geelong
With clinics in Craigieburn, Caroline Springs, Armstrong Creek, and Curlewis, we provide accessible diabetic retinopathy treatment in Melbourne and Geelong. Our optometrists are skilled in identifying early signs of damage and supporting your treatment journey with ongoing care and education.
Whether you are newly diagnosed with diabetes or have lived with it for years, our clinics offer reliable support, tailored monitoring, and easy access to expert care when you need it most.
Support from your local team
Why Choose Spectacle Hub for Diabetic Eye Care?
Spectacle Hub is a trusted provider of diabetic eye care in your local community. Here’s why patients choose us:
- Advanced retinal imaging and diagnostic technology
- Regular monitoring to detect progression early
- Strong links with diabetes specialists and ophthalmologists
- Convenient locations across both Melbourne and Geelong
- Compassionate, clear communication every step of the way
We understand how overwhelming a diabetes diagnosis can be, and we’re here to help you manage your vision and long-term eye health with confidence.
Meet Spectacle HubStay ahead of change
When Should You See a Diabetic Retinopathy Expert?
All people with diabetes, type 1 or type 2, should have a comprehensive eye examination at least once a year. You should see a diabetic retinopathy expert at Spectacle Hub immediately if you experience:
- Sudden vision changes
- Dark patches or spots in your vision
- Flashes of light or floaters
- Any symptoms that interfere with your daily life
For more information on diabetic eye disease, visit the Diabetes Australia website.
Bring to your appointment
- Your current glasses and medication list
- Recent diabetes results, if available
- Details of your GP and diabetes care team
- Any previous eye reports
If your eyes need dilating, vision may be temporarily blurred and light-sensitive. Ask the practice about arranging transport.
Book a Diabetic Eye Examination Today
Protecting your sight starts with a simple appointment. If you live in Melbourne or Geelong and need expert care for diabetic eye health, Spectacle Hub is here to support you.
Book my eye examination