Diabetic Macular Edema

Diabetic Macular Edema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy, a condition where high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. The macula, a small area in the center of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, becomes swollen due to fluid leakage from these damaged blood vessels. This swelling, if untreated, can lead to significant vision loss.

Causes of Diabetic Macular Edema

The primary cause of DME is prolonged high blood sugar levels, which lead to the damage of retinal blood vessels. Other contributing factors include:

Hypertension: High blood pressure can exacerbate blood vessel damage.
Hyperlipidemia: High cholesterol levels contribute to vascular complications.
Duration of Diabetes: The longer a person has diabetes, the higher the risk of developing DME.
Poorly Controlled Blood Sugar: Inadequate management of blood sugar levels increases the risk.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Symptoms of Diabetic Macular Edema

Recognizing the symptoms of DME early is crucial for effective management. Common symptoms include:

Blurred Vision: An early indication of macular swelling.
Wavy Vision: Straight lines may appear distorted.
Color Distortion: Colors may appear washed out or faded.
Dark or Empty Spots: Presence of dark areas in the field of vision.

These symptoms can vary in intensity and may not be immediately noticeable, emphasizing the importance of regular eye examinations for individuals with diabetes.

Diagnosis of Diabetic Macular Edema

Diagnosing DME involves a thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist. The following diagnostic tools are commonly used:

Dilated Eye Exam: Allows for a comprehensive view of the retina and macula.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed images of the retina to assess swelling and fluid accumulation.
Fluorescein Angiography: Involves injecting a dye to highlight blood vessels in the retina, identifying leaks or blockages.

Early diagnosis is key to preventing severe vision loss, making routine screenings essential for individuals with diabetes.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Treatment Options for Diabetic Macular Edema

There are several treatment strategies available for managing DME, each aimed at reducing macular swelling and preserving vision.

Anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections are a common treatment. These medications reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. Common anti-VEGF drugs include:

Ranibizumab (Lucentis)
Aflibercept (Eylea)
Bevacizumab (Avastin)

Regular injections, often administered monthly, can stabilize or improve vision in many patients.

Corticosteroid Implants

For some patients, corticosteroid implants may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the retina. These implants provide sustained release of medication over several months.

Dexamethasone (Ozurdex)
Fluocinolone acetonide (Iluvien)

Corticosteroid treatments may have side effects, such as increased intraocular pressure, which need monitoring by an eye care professional.

Laser Therapy

Focal laser therapy involves targeting specific areas of leakage in the retina, sealing the blood vessels and reducing fluid accumulation. This treatment can be effective in stabilizing vision and preventing further deterioration.

Managing Underlying Conditions

Effective management of diabetes and related conditions is crucial. This includes:

Blood Sugar Control: Achieving target blood glucose levels through medication, diet, and exercise.
Blood Pressure Management: Controlling hypertension with lifestyle changes and medications.
Cholesterol Management: Using lipid-lowering medications to reduce vascular risk.

Complications of Untreated Diabetic Macular Edema

Without appropriate treatment, DME can lead to severe complications, including:

Permanent Vision Loss: Irreversible damage to the macula can result in long-term vision impairment.
Increased Risk of Retinal Detachment: Fluid accumulation can lead to the separation of the retina from the underlying tissue.
Impact on Quality of Life: Visual impairment affects daily activities, independence, and mental health.

Find Our Specialists

Book Doctor Appointment