When fluid builds up behind the macula (the central part of the retina), causing the area to thicken and enlarge, this is called macular edema. Damaged blood vessels are often the reasons why fluid can accumulate in this area. The condition is often associated with diabetics because of the ongoing damage that occurs to the blood vessels in the eyes, resulting in diabetic macular edema.
Symptoms of Macular Edema
- Wavy central vision
- Blurry vision
- Faded color perception
- Vision loss
Risk Factors for Macular Edema
- Diabetes/diabetic retinopathy
- Wet age-related macular degeneration
- Inflammatory diseases (uveitis)
- Previous eye surgery
- Retinal vein occlusion
Treatment for Macular Edema
The right treatment will depend on the root cause and severity of your condition:
Medications
Steroids or anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to reduce the risk of abnormal blood vessel growth.
Anti-Inflammatory Treatments
Corticosteroid treatments in the form of eye drops, oral medication or injections may help reduce inflammation.
Laser Treatment
Laser burns are performed to stop leaks of fluid and blood or to shrink abnormal blood vessels.
Vitrectomy
blood vessels, blood and scar tissue are removed from the vitreous gel in the eye.