James' story: My experience of eye screening

I was initially diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after displaying the common symptoms of type 1 diabetes, such as losing weight and having extreme thirst. However, it was later confirmed that I had type 1 diabetes after the tablets weren’t helping and so I was then put on insulin.

Whilst at an eye clinic appointment, it was detected that I had fluid build-up in my left eye. I was told I needed injections for diabetic macular oedema - a form of retinopathy which requires injections into your eye. I was really scared about the actual injections and the thought of going blind.

My family could sense a change in me as I was on edge and quieter than usual. It was an anxious time for me, it just never got any easier, but I did it for the good of my health. I’m not someone who talks about how I’m feeling, so it was a lot to deal with alone.

I do worry about diabetes complications, especially with my eyesight and in my legs. My dad passed away young from type 2 diabetes complications, and that plays on my mind. It’s hard to deal with those worries along with everyday life, like work, cost of living and moving house. But knowing there’s support online and having services like the Diabetes UK Helpline really helps.

Eye screening

The importance of eye screening for me is about catching any eye problems early before it does any lasting damage, which personally is a good thing. 

"From my experience, going to my eye screening appointments has benefited me greatly and prevented me from losing my eyesight."

As a result of eye screening, they discovered fluid build-up around one of the retinas of my eye, and they diagnosed me with diabetic macular oedema.

I also received laser treatment to deal with a new blood vessel that formed, preventing any further damage to my eye. I would say that eye screening is giving me the confidence in retaining my eyesight, as any likely complications are being picked up at an early stage. I’m very pleased that eye screening is in place for people with diabetes to give our eyes that specific monitoring and attention to ensure we can maintain our sight.

I would say that if you have any concerns, if in doubt, then get it checked out. There’s nothing worse than feeling that something isn’t right.

Get it checked even if it’s nothing – speak to a pharmacist, your GP or the diabetes nursing team, or if it’s about your eyes, you can also see an optician.

"It’s important that you make sure you attend every appointment. If you can’t make it, rearrange it, as if not monitored correctly, then things can quickly change."

I’m so lucky with my eyes, and although I’m in no way out of the woods, I feel I’m in a much better place now than if I didn’t go for my health checks. 

Reach out for support

If you are affected by the topics highlighted within this story or other stories on our website, you can access support from our helpline team on 0345 122 2399, Mon- Fri, 9am- 6pm, or email helpline@diabetes.org.uk.

You can join our free Support Forum – to connect with others affected by diabetes (minimum age 13). For more information, see Forum FAQs.

For those aged 11-25 living with type 1 diabetes, check out our youth programme Together Type 1 for a supportive community of people who understand what it’s really like juggling the ups and downs of life with diabetes.