I am a diabetic. Do I need a retinal exam?

Yes. If you have been recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, get an ocular examination immediately. Those with Type 1 diabetes should get an eye exam within the first 5 years of the onset of their diabetes. Follow up exams after the first one depend on the changes in your eye. The doctor will tell you how often you need to get a retinal exam. In the absence of any changes, a yearly exam is recommended.

I have hypertension. Can my retina be affected?

Yes. High blood pressure causes changes to occur in the retinal blood vessels and may even lead to occlusion of one of the retinal veins, a condition that can be sight threatening. It is thus important to keep your blood pressure in check.

How do I know I have a retinal problem?

Retinal diseases usually cause sudden painless decrease in vision, scotomas, flashes of light, floaters and distortion of images. If you have any of these, you may have a retinal problem.

Is laser treatment painful?

No. It is a simple outpatient procedure that is not painful and allows you to return to your regular activities immediately after the procedure.

What happens when I come to the hospital for a retinal checkup?

During your visit to our hospital, you will first be taken through a routine check up of your refraction by a team of qualified optometrists. This will be followed by dilatation of your pupils for a detailed retinal exam by a consultant. Following dilatation, it maybe difficult to read or drive for several hours after the visit. You may wish to bring sunglasses and/or a driver for your vehicle. Retinal evaluations can be time consuming and often involve additional tests and treatment. If you have other systemic complaints (diabetes, hypertension etc), bring in your other medical records with details of the medications you are on.