Diabetic Macular Edema (DMO) in eyes is a condition where fluid builds up in the macula, the central part of the retina, due to diabetes. This swelling can lead to blurred vision and vision loss.
Understanding Diabetic Macular Edema (DMO)
Here's a more detailed explanation:
- Retina: The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It's crucial for vision, functioning like the film in a camera.
- Macula: The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for tasks like reading and driving.
- Diabetes and DMO: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina. These damaged vessels can leak fluid and blood, causing the macula to swell. This swelling is known as diabetic macular edema (DMO).
Symptoms of DMO
The most common symptom of DMO is blurred or distorted central vision. Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty reading
- Difficulty seeing fine details
- Colors appearing faded
Diagnosis and Treatment
DMO is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:
- Visual acuity test: To measure how well you can see.
- Dilated eye exam: To allow the doctor to see the retina more clearly.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT): To take detailed images of the retina and macula to measure swelling.
- Fluorescein angiography: To check for leaky blood vessels in the retina.
Treatment options for DMO include:
- Anti-VEGF injections: These medications help to reduce the leakage from blood vessels and decrease swelling.
- Laser surgery: This can help to seal leaking blood vessels.
- Corticosteroids: These medications can reduce inflammation and swelling.
It's important for people with diabetes to have regular eye exams to detect DMO early and begin treatment to prevent vision loss. Maintaining good blood sugar control can also help to reduce the risk of developing DMO.
