Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is the most common cause of vision loss among diabetic patients. It is also a leading cause of vision loss in working adults worldwide. Diabetic Retinopathy can progress and lead to DME.

DME (Diabetic Mocular Edema) occurs when there are changes to the macula, a small portion of the retina that is located on the inner back layer of the eye, resulting in loss of central vision.

The growth of new and weak blood vessels in the eyes results in the leakage of fluid from the vessels. Fluid and protein deposits will then accumulate in the macular region of the retina.

Accumulation of fluid causes the macula to thicken.

All patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing DME. The chances of being diagnosed with DME can be affected by the following risk factors.

• Take your diabetes medications as directed by your doctor.
• Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels.
• Keep high blood pressure under control.
• Maintain a healthy body weight and manage your diet.
• If you smoke, speak with your doctor about a cessation program and work towards quitting as soon as you can.
• Exercise regularly to help avoid high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol.

It is important to follow up on your DME diagnosis with your ophthalmologist. DME is often asymptomatic (no symptoms) and vision loss due to DME can be gradual.

Gradual loss of ability to see objects clearly.

Shape of objects appear distorted and straight lines look wavy or crooked.

A dark area in central part of vision.

How to test your eye?

In good light, look at the grid from about 30-40 cm away. Be sure to wear your reading glasses if you normally use them.

Cover one eye. Look directly at the dot in the center of the grid with your uncovered eye.

Notice if any of the lines look wavy or crooked. See if any part of the grid looks blurry, dim, or out of shape.

Cover the other eye and test your vision the same way again.

None of these are permanent cures, but they can help minimise vision loss