Diabetic Macular Edema Resource Center - All Articles
Health ConditionsDiabetesDiabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic Macular Edema - All Articles

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a complication of diabetes that occurs when fluid builds up in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. This can lead to blurred or double vision, distorted vision, and difficulty seeing colors. Treatment options for DME include medications like anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy (also known as anti-VEGF injections) and corticosteroids as well as procedures like laser therapy and vitrectomy, which removes fluid and scar tissue from the eye. Managing blood sugar levels and blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication can help prevent and slow the progression of DME.

FAQ

What are the early signs of diabetic macular edema?

Early signs you may have diabetic macular edema include blurred vision, colors appearing faded or dull, and distorted vision where objects look wavy or appear to be different sizes if you look with one eye followed by the other.

Diabetic macular edema is diagnosed through an eye exam, visual field test, and imaging tests, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography, which allow physicians to view the inside of your eye.

If left untreated, diabetic macular edema can lead to severe vision loss and blindness.

You're at a higher risk of diabetic macular edema if you have long-standing diabetes, poor blood sugar control, and high blood pressure. Smoking also increases the risk.

People with diabetes should have an eye exam annually at a minimum — or more frequently as advised by an eye doctor.

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Resources
  1. Diabetes-Related Macular Edema. Cleveland Clinic. February 14, 2023.

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