Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a severe complication of diabetic retinopathy that occurs when there is swelling in the central part of the retina in the eye, called the macula.
Diabetes affects the blood vessels in the eyes, making them weaker and more likely to leak blood. It may also cause new and more fragile blood vessels to grow where they shouldn’t.
There are several signs and symptoms of diabetic macular edema, including:
- Blurry or double vision
- Difficulty seeing colors
- Dark spots
- Straight lines that appear to be bent or curved
- Floaters
- Difficulty seeing when there’s glare or bright light
- Seeing an object as being a different size when looking at it with only one eye and then the other
Diabetic macular edema can be diagnosed when an ophthalmologist performs a thorough eye examination to see if there is any swelling in your retina. In addition to the eye exam, your ophthalmologist will perform a slit lamp exam, as well as tests to help diagnose and monitor diabetic macular edema, including:
- Optical coherence tomography
- Fluorescein angiography
- Amsler grid
There are several treatment options for diabetic macular edema. One form of treatment includes drugs that block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is a protein that helps new blood vessels grow, and steroids that are injected into the eye to help manage inflammation. Another form of treatment includes laser therapy to seal the blood vessels in your eyes to stop the leakage, and vitrectomy.
There are several ways to possibly reduce your risk of developing diabetic macular edema, including:
- Managing diabetes and other chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure
- Getting regular eye exams
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular physical activity
- Quitting smoking
If you’re experiencing symptoms of diabetic macular edema, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ophthalmology Center now by calling (718) 206-5900.
FollowAll content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.