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Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It occurs when fluid leaks into the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, clear vision. This can cause the macula to swell, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
DME is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, which occurs as a result of high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The damaged blood vessels can leak fluid and other substances into the macula, leading to edema.
Symptoms of DME include blurry or distorted vision, decreased color perception, and difficulty seeing in low light conditions. Treatment options for DME include laser therapy, injections of medications into the eye, and sometimes surgery. In addition to treating DME, it is important for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol to prevent further damage to the eyes and other organs. Regular eye exams are also important for detecting and treating DME and other eye complications of diabetes.