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Eyes and bleeding

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SarahJRobinson

New Member
Relationship to Diabetes
Type 1
Hi

I went for my eye sight test at my opticians a week ago where they spotted that my veins were bleeding. They've referred me urgently and I'm pretty scared. Going to hospital this afternoon. It's very near my optical nerve.

I know I'm the past I've been told that there was evidence that a vein may have bled before but as they told me it was ok now and to be more careful with my sugar levels I didn't ask what it meant or consequences etc.

I'm now wishing I did and I'm putting all sorts together in my head.

So I'm more prepared (and don't break down in front of my doctor) anyone out there for any advise for me?
 
This year I've had a small bleed in one eye approx 5 or 6 times. My GP and optician both said there must be a weakness in the blood vessel and to check my BP when it happens - if it's normal then there's no problem, it's just one of those things. I hope it's the same in your case, Sarah.😳🙂

As for BG control, mine is what I'd call 'average' and 'a work in progress' (last A1c 7.8%, down from 8.1%). I also learned here on the forum that a rapid improvement in control can actually have a damaging effect on eyes.

Is this your 'wake up call' as far as BG control is concerned? Mine came after a few years in diabetic burnout mode - I realised I wasn't going to feel emotionally more stable and able to self-manage unless I made some lifestyle changes. 🙂
 
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Hi Sarah it depends upon what sort of bleeding it is and whether it is close to your macula? Have you noticed any changes in your vision with that eye? If it is a bleed they will probably choose to either monitor it or do laser. If it is affecting the macula they may decide to leave it, do laser or eye injections - I was petrified when I had an eye injection for another eye condition but I can truly honestly say that it did not hurt at all. It is so important to keep both your diabetes and blood pressure under control, not easy but it is really important. Please let us know how we can help you and how you get on this afternoon. They will put eye drops in today to examine them so please make sure that you're not driving.
 
Hi Sarah,
Do you know if the bleeding is from retinopathy? You will be well looked after and monitored for changes at the eye unit and there are things that can be done to slow down and hopefully stop any changes if they are found.

It is so very frightening when problems occur in your sight but you have been referred quickly and will be in the best place for care and treatment if it is needed. I agree with Amanda that the thought of any eye treatment such as laser and injections is a lot worse in the mind than in reality. If you are told you need to tighten your blood glucose control do check with your diabetes team as a rapid improvement in bg can perversely make retinopathy - if that is what you have - worsen.

I wish you well for this afternoon. Good luck.
 
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