Exeter optometrist advocates for awareness week warning that eye tests could detect diabetes

An optometrist at an independent practice in Exeter hopes to spread awareness during Diabetes Awareness Week, claiming that your eyes may be a key indicator of the condition.

Adam Matthews of Andrew Laird Opticians has spoken out following Diabetes Awareness Week, taking place from June 9thto June 15th, to help raise awareness of a condition that could be detected by an eye examination.

With cases of diabetes steadily on the rise over the past decade, it has become increasingly vital to spread awareness of the signs to look out for. Diabetes UK state that 1.2 million people are living with diabetes but are undiagnosed as often they experience little to no symptoms at all, preventing the condition being treated. Over a prolonged period of time, this can lead to damage to the heart, kidneys and even your eyes, potentially leading to loss of vision.

Optometrist and Director, Adam Matthews, said: “There are many conditions seemingly unrelated to your eyes that can still have an impact on your sight or eye health.

“Often times you may not even be aware that there’s an underlying issue causing certain symptoms such as blurred vision or floaters.

“However, a trip to your local opticians could catch diabetes early. Advanced technology such as OCT allows us to view the back of your eye in much greater detail than could previously be achieved, providing the opportunity to detect diabetes amongst other eye conditions at an early stage.”

Symptoms of diabetes to be aware of include feeling thirstier than usual, frequent urination, loss of weight, feeling tired or feeling weak.

Adam also urged those living with diagnosed diabetes to continue attending their regular diabetic eye screenings to avoid the risks of diabetic retinopathy which may not initially present any symptoms.

They added: “Your eyes can tell you a lot about someone’s physical health, not just their vision which is why it’s so important to attend regular eye examinations, particularly if you’ve experienced any recent changes to your vision.”

To find out more information or to book an appointment please visit www.andrewlairdopticians.co.uk