Diabetic Macular Oedema (DMO) is a serious eye condition that affects people with diabetes, leading to vision impairment and potential blindness if left untreated. Understanding what DMO is, its symptoms, and the available treatment options is crucial for managing this diabetic eye disease. 

In this article, we will explore the causes of DMO, the symptoms to look out for, and the various treatment options, including when they should be administered.

Understanding Diabetic Macular Oedema

Diabetic Macular Oedema is a complication of diabetic retinopathy, which is a common diabetic eye disease. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage of fluid into the macula – the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This fluid accumulation causes the macula to swell, resulting in blurred vision or vision loss.

  • Causes: The primary cause of DMO  is prolonged high blood sugar levels, which damage the retinal blood vessels. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the duration of diabetes.
  • Symptoms: Common symptoms of DMO include blurred or wavy vision, color distortion, and difficulty reading or recognizing faces. These symptoms can worsen over time if not treated promptly.

List of Symptoms

  • Blurred or wavy vision
  • Color distortion
  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces

Diagnosing Diabetic Macular Oedema

Early diagnosis of DMO is critical for effective diabetic eye disease treatment. Regular eye examinations are essential for people with diabetes to detect any changes in the retina and macula.

  • Eye Exams: During an eye exam, an ophthalmologist will use various techniques to check for signs of DMO. These include visual acuity tests, dilated eye exams, and imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography.
  • Imaging Tests: OCT provides detailed images of the retina, helping doctors see any fluid buildup or swelling. Fluorescein angiography involves injecting a dye into the bloodstream to highlight blood vessels in the retina, identifying any leaks or abnormalities.

List of Diagnostic Tests

  • Visual acuity test
  • Dilated eye exam
  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
  • Fluorescein angiography

Treatment Options for Diabetic Macular Oedema

There are several treatment options available for DMO, aimed at reducing swelling, improving vision, and preventing further damage. The choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the swelling and the patient’s overall health.

  • Anti-VEGF Injections: One of the most common treatments for DMO is anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections. These medications help reduce the leakage from blood vessels and decrease swelling in the macula. Regular injections are often required to maintain vision improvements.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Corticosteroids are another option for reducing inflammation and swelling in the retina. These injections can be particularly useful for patients who do not respond well to anti-VEGF therapy. However, they may have side effects, such as increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation.
  • Laser Therapy: Focal laser therapy is used to seal leaking blood vessels in the retina, reducing fluid accumulation. This treatment is less common today due to the effectiveness of anti-VEGF injections but may still be used in certain cases.

When to Seek Treatment

Early intervention is key to managing DMO effectively. People with diabetes should have regular eye exams at least once a year, or more frequently if recommended by their ophthalmologist. If you experience any changes in vision, such as blurriness or difficulty seeing colors, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

  • Immediate Attention: Symptoms like sudden vision loss, significant changes in vision, or persistent eye pain should be addressed immediately by an ophthalmologist.
  • Regular Monitoring: Even if you do not have symptoms, regular eye check-ups can help detect DMO early and start treatment before significant vision loss occurs.

Conclusion

Diabetic Macular Oedema is a serious complication of diabetes that requires timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent vision loss. Understanding the symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for DMO can help patients and healthcare providers manage this condition effectively. 

Regular eye exams and prompt treatment are essential for maintaining vision and quality of life for those with diabetes. If you or a loved one has diabetes, ensure that eye health is a priority and seek professional advice for any vision changes.