Diabetic Maculopathy | What it is
Diabetic maculopathy (DM) is a complication of diabetes that occurs when the blood vessels in the macula, the central part of the retina, become damaged or blocked:
Cause Of Diabetic Maculopathy
- High blood sugar: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels in the eye.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
- Inactivity: A lack of physical activity can contribute to diabetic macular edema.
Symptoms of DM
DM may not cause symptoms early on but can lead to vision impairment if left untreated.
Diagnosis
Fundus ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein angiography are traditional methods for diagnosing DM. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a newer technique that can help with early detection and treatment.
Treatment
Treatments can slow the progression of DM and make symptoms less severe, but symptoms often return. Treatment could include laser treatment, eye injections, implants and eye surgery.
Prevention
Controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of developing DM. People with diabetes should also attend annual diabetic eye screenings.
Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy and how to reverse it
DM can occur in the non-proliferative or proliferative stages of diabetic retinopathy. Complications of untreated proliferative diabetic retinopathy can cause severe vision loss