Opticians across the Liverpool region are urging members of the public suffering from diabetes, or those who may be at risk of the disease, to ensure they undergo regular eye exams in an effort to spot early stages of eye conditions caused by the disease.
Specsavers stores in Liverpool Lord Street, Allerton, Belle Vale, Bootle, Huyton, Norris Green, Old Swan and Crosby are keen to raise awareness of this health warning ahead of World Diabetes Day on 14 November, a day dedicated to increasing awareness about diabetes.
According to charity Diabetes UK, there are over 4 million people in the UK are living with diabetes which could mean they are at risk of suffering from diabetic retinopathy, a disease which causes damage to the retina and which could eventually lead to blindness if left untreated.
Andrew Preston, director at the Allerton Road store in Allerton is urging members of the public who suffer from diabetes to upkeep regular eye exams and come into store and have their eye health checked.
He warns: ‘There are often no warning signs in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy but if left untreated the results could be life changing, which is why it’s so important for sufferers to have their eyes tested on an annual basis.
‘A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to spot the condition in its early stages and could allow us the chance to take preventative measures.’
Symptoms of the disease include blurred vision, floaters or shadows and missing areas of vision.
To find out more or to book an eye test at Specsavers in the Liverpool region visit: www.specsavers.co.uk/stores