Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges in Nigeria, and its impact on vision is often underestimated. Diabetic eye disease is the umbrella term for a group of eye problems that can affect people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The most serious of these is diabetic retinopathy — a condition that damages the blood vessels in the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

In its early stages, diabetic retinopathy causes no symptoms. As the disease progresses, small blood vessels in the retina can leak fluid or bleed, causing blurry or fluctuating vision. In advanced cases, abnormal new blood vessels grow on the retina and may cause severe vision loss or even blindness if not treated promptly. This is why routine screening is so important — intervention before symptoms appear can prevent permanent damage.

Other diabetes-related eye conditions include diabetic macular oedema (swelling at the centre of the retina), neovascular glaucoma, and an accelerated risk of cataracts. People with diabetes are also more prone to sudden fluctuations in their glasses prescription as blood sugar levels affect the shape of the eye\’s lens.

At Naderk Eye Centre, we offer comprehensive diabetic eye screening using digital retinal photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT). These advanced tools allow our specialists to detect the earliest signs of retinal change and monitor the condition over time with great precision, creating a clear record of your retinal health.

Treatment options for diabetic retinopathy include intravitreal injections (anti-VEGF therapy) to reduce abnormal blood vessel growth, laser photocoagulation to seal leaking vessels, and vitrectomy surgery in advanced cases. Our specialists tailor treatment to each individual patient, working in close coordination with endocrinologists and other healthcare providers.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes — regardless of whether you currently have any vision problems — we strongly recommend annual diabetic eye screenings. At Naderk Eye Centre, we are committed to helping our patients preserve the gift of sight through early detection, expert care, and ongoing support.