Retinal health: Achieving optimal well-being
Most people don’t wonder if their eyes are healthy. They can see, so they believe everything is fine. However, things might be happening in the background that they are unaware of. Retinal function must be monitored to preserve your vision. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It helps concern light into electrical signals which the brain then interprets, allowing you to see.
What is diabetic macular edema?
Individuals with diabetic retinopathy are at higher risk of diabetic macular edema (DME). This condition can lead to vision loss or blindness if not treated. Damaged blood vessels in the retina leak fluid and protein deposits. The fluid and deposits bring about edema in the macula or central part of the retina. Vision becomes distorted and may appear wavy or blurry. If not treated, diabetic macular edema can leave a person blind. The alimera management team is working to reduce the risk of this happening.
Who is at risk?
Every diabetic needs to undergo regular eye exams to catch problems early. Men and women with poorly controlled blood sugar levels, however, are at the highest risk of developing diabetic macular edema. When blood sugar levels rise, they damage the small blood vessels in the retina. This happens over time, and the person is often unaware of it. However, other risk factors exist. A person with high blood pressure must be monitored for DME and the same holds for pregnant women. High cholesterol levels also contribute to the development of DME.
Diabetic macular edema symptoms
When a person develops diabetic macular edema, they often have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Over time, they begin to have problems with their vision. They might find they have trouble reading or seeing fine details. Often they blame this on getting older. Blurred and distorted vision is common with DME and a person might notice their central vision isn’t as good as it used to be.
Reducing the risk of DME
Every diabetic must get their blood sugar levels under control to prevent or slow the progression of DME and other eye diseases that come with this chronic condition. Diet and exercise often help with this goal. Some men and women find they need medication, however, to control their blood sugar levels. In addition, diabetics need to see their eye doctors regularly for exams, so any eye problems are detected and treated early.
Treating DME
Doctors may use one of several methods to treat DME. Laser therapy is one treatment used today or the doctor might recommend injectable medications or steroid injections. They work to reduce swelling in the retina to prevent additional vision loss. At times, a doctor will recommend vitrectomy surgery to help improve vision. Today, implants might also be placed in the eye to dispense time-released corticosteroids for the treatment of DME.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes may help slow the progression of DME. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential. Men and women who smoke need to quit to preserve their vision. Regular eye exams are also necessary.
Work with the eye doctor and your medical team to manage not only your DME but also any health conditions that are contributing to this disease. Work closely with these medical professionals and follow all treatment plans to protect your retinal health and maintain good vision for years to come.
