Diabetes affects millions worldwide, and if not properly managed, it can lead to a range of complications, one of the most serious being diabetic macular edema (DME).

This condition can severely impact vision. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of DME, you can take proactive steps to protect your eyesight and overall health.

What Is Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)?

Diabetic macular edema is a condition that affects the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. DME develops when high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid. This fluid builds up in the macula, leading to swelling and resulting in blurred or distorted vision. If left untreated, DME can cause permanent vision loss.

Approximately 3.8% of people with diabetes will eventually develop DME, making it an important concern for diabetic patients.

What Causes DME?

The main cause of DME is uncontrolled diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. As these blood vessels leak fluid, the macula swells, causing diabetic macular edema. The best prevention for DME is maintaining tight control over blood sugar levels to minimize damage to retinal blood vessels.

Symptoms of Diabetic Macular Edema

In its early stages, DME may not cause noticeable symptoms, making regular eye exams crucial. As the condition worsens, individuals may experience the following symptoms:

• Blurred or distorted central vision
• Difficulty seeing in bright light or at night
• Trouble distinguishing colors
• Fluctuating vision, with occasional improvements and worsening

If you notice any of these changes, it’s vital to consult with your eye doctor right away. DME can deteriorate quickly and lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated promptly.

How Is DME Diagnosed?

An eye doctor can diagnose DME during a comprehensive eye examination. Tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography can evaluate retinal swelling and assess the blood vessels' condition. Early detection is essential for managing DME effectively and preventing serious complications.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Macular Edema

The first line of treatment for DME is controlling blood sugar levels. However, once DME develops, additional treatments may be needed to manage the condition and prevent further vision loss:

1. Medications:

2. Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections like Avastin, Lucentis, or Eylea can reduce fluid leakage and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina.
3. Corticosteroid injections, such as triamcinolone acetonide, can reduce inflammation and swelling.

4. Laser Therapy:

5. Focal or grid laser therapy can be used to seal leaking blood vessels, helping to prevent further fluid leakage. This treatment can help preserve vision in cases of mild to moderate DME.

6. Surgery:

7. If the swelling is severe and other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary. A vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous gel in the eye to address significant swelling or bleeding.

8. Vision Aids and Rehabilitation:

9. If vision loss has already occurred, glasses or magnifiers can help improve visual function. For those with significant vision impairment, vision rehabilitation therapy can teach adaptive strategies for daily living.

How to Prevent Diabetic Macular Edema

While DME can’t always be prevented, there are several key strategies to reduce the risk:

• Control your blood sugar:Keeping glucose levels within a healthy range is the most effective way to prevent diabetic complications like DME.
• Schedule regular eye exams:If you have diabetes, it’s essential to have annual eye exams to detect DME and other issues early.
• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol:Keeping these within healthy ranges can prevent DME and other diabetes-related complications.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle:Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking are all beneficial for maintaining eye health and minimizing the risk of DME.

Next Steps

If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your vision, or if it’s been a while since your last eye exam, make an appointment with your eye doctor. Early detection of diabetic macular edema is critical for preventing severe vision problems and preserving your eyesight.

By managing your diabetes effectively and staying proactive about eye health, you can reduce your risk of DME and enjoy a better quality of life.