Your Eye Screening

When you have diabetes, it is important that you have an eye check (screening) every year. Our care team will do this screening at the Pediatric Diabetes Center.

Why do you need an eye screening?

• Early vision changes due to diabetes often do not have symptoms.

• The care team can check if you have diabetes-related changes in the blood vessels of your retina. The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye.

• If we find diabetes-related changes, we can start treatment right away to prevent vision loss.

How long does the screening take?

• It is quick – less than five minutes.

What will the screening show us?

• It will tell us if there are any changes in the blood vessels of your retina.

• It will also tell us if you need more tests with an eye doctor (ophthalmologist).

What will the screening NOT show us?

• It will NOT tell us if you need eyeglasses.

• It will NOT tell us if you have other eye conditions, like glaucoma.

How can you help prevent diabetes-related changes in your child’s eyes?

• Keep blood sugars in the target range. This will greatly reduce the risk of diabetes-related changes in your eyes.

• Treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol (if you have one or both). This will decrease the risk to your eyes.

If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your diabetes team or call 212-263-9910. A member of our team would be happy to help you.

Created in partnership with families and expertise from our Sala Institute for Child and Family Centered Care.

©2024 NYU Langone Health. All rights reserved. Reviewed for health literacy. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care provider's instructions.