Medications Options
Some medicines used to treat diabetic macular edema include:
Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (Anti-VEGF) Drugs These medicines are given as an injection into the eye. They block the development of new, abnormal blood vessels and help control leakage from damaged blood vessels. Typically, several injections are needed.Research published in April 2018 in the Canadian Journal of Diabetes shows that this form of therapy can improve vision.According to the National Eye Institute, anti-VEGF medicines are currently considered the standard of care for macular edema.Serious risks are rare but can include infection, inflammation of the eye, bleeding, or retinal detachment, notes the American Society of Retina Specialists.Corticosteroids Steroids can reduce inflammation in the eye. They’re usually given as an injection into the eye or as an injectable eye implant that releases the drug over time.Steroids may increase your risk of developing glaucoma or cataracts, so you should talk to your doctor about the pros and cons.
Laser Treatment
Surgery
Prevention of Diabetic Macular Edema
Maintaining good blood sugar controlKeeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in checkReceiving a comprehensive eye exam at least once a yearFollowing a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a nutritious diet
Regular eye exams and screenings are extremely important for people at risk for diabetic macular edema because symptoms don’t always show up.
Diabetic retinopathyType 1 diabetesType 2 diabetesGestational diabetesHypertensionHigh cholesterol
American Academy of Ophthalmology The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons, consisting of 32,000 medical doctors. Their site offers credible information about various conditions affecting the eye, including diabetic macular edema. NIH: National Eye Institute The NIH’s National Eye Institute provides detailed educational materials for different types of eye diseases and conditions. From fact sheets to webinars, their resources can help you learn more about diabetic eye diseases and how to lower your risk of vision loss. American Diabetes Association (ADA) The ADA’s mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of all people affected by the disease. Their site offers useful information about diseases that affect vision as well as stories from patients who are living with diabetes-related eye conditions. PreventBlindness.org Prevent Blindness is an organization with a mission that echoes its name: to prevent blindness and preserve sight. We especially like their Resources for Low Vision page, which provides links to financial assistance sites, doctor searches, assistive technology products, and more. VisionAware VisionAware is a free informational service for people affected by vision loss. In addition to providing personal stories, the organization offers a feature that lets you search for local support groups in your area. DiabetesNet This site offers an array of diabetes products available for purchase. Some popular items include cookbooks, glucose monitors, pump accessories, and more. KNFB Reader App This handy app converts text into speech or Braile instantly to give people with vision problems access to print. It also allows users to easily send and share documents. Be My Eyes App This free application connects people with vision problems with sighted volunteers who can provide assistance via a live video call. It’s now available in 180-plus different languages in more than 150 countries.
